Issue 1194 27 January 2026

Pauline’s Place

IJANUARY 2026

have included two photos provided by Robyn and Mike, owners of Wheels Within Walls of a tourist destination – combination of museum, memorabilia and quirky historic displays, just south of Whitianga near the corner of Wade Road and SH25, of which I have taken a photo.

It is a must see for locals and visitors, especially classic car and folk history enthusiasts. It has een in orio f oo e thi t week and the photos are of one of the many rescue teams of neighbours and friends who came to help clean up.

The other photo is of some of the e ri remo e from the f oor of the museum. No one was asked to come and help.

They knew Wheels Within Walls would be in trouble, as every time the corner of Wade Road and t te i h i f oo e o i the wonderful museum and surrounding grounds lovingly developed, with collections displayed and growing for over a decade or more.

The locals are used to this damage cycle and they know the maintenance teams of Wake Kotahi and also TCDC will be there to clean up the public space and surrounds as they have before.

If I had a digger or a bulldozer

However, this past weekend there is determination and steel in Robyn’s voice as she explains that it is no longer acceptable to do the maintenance of clearing and cleaning up and then wait for the same situation to happen again. To spend a little more on preventative action would save so much more in the long run on maintenance costs. The neighbours are gathering to support this argument. They want to be part of a growing and

roast veggies and gravy • Spaghetti, cheese and bolognese

• Moroccan Chicken on mash potato and mix veggies • Curried Sausages, mash potato and peas

developing future and not settle for re e te f oo in n m town thinking that keeps things the same.

Of course, there is more involved than getting a very large digger and gouging out from the river/ creek the deposits from a numer of f oo inc in n nte slash, but it would not be a silly place to start. The soil and silt could be the beginnings of an engineered earth wall or stopbank.

What RMA wriggle room do they have? How quickly can Transit New Zealand/Waka Kotahi act or can they empower locals to do what they can’t seem to get to in et een f oo . i en ineer and emergency teams from TCDC be able to facilitate a joint plan –central government, locals and local government?

All of this and more could apply to the f oo in ne r re cott Garage but I am sure there is

another team in that situation yearning for a change-of-maintenance plan.

This small State Highway 25 needs to be kept open with remedial, preventative engineering and local initiatives. Whitianga needs to ensure an economically viable future all year round. Then our or c n nno nce f oo in t can invite Aucklanders to come and see for themselves driving on roads that remain open.

and

STAR and SPACE STATION GAZING IN 2026 – your guide to the night sky

January 27-February 4: Jupiter is now very obvious low in the eastern sky after dusk sitting in Gemini. This week the Moon can help us locate it while Saturn is getting increasingly low in the west now. A small telescope or even powerful binoculars will reveal Jupiter’s four biggest moons moving dramatically from night to night. Unfortunately Mars, Venus and Mercury remain out of sight this week as they are all too close to the Sun to be seen from our perspective at present.

Only a few International Space Station (ISS) passes to view this week but, as usual, timings may change especially towards the end of the week if it has to be moved to avoid space junk. Always best to check the website heavens-

above.com for updated timings. Thursday, January 29 – The bright Moon sits well to the left of bright Jupiter late in the evening. Friday, January 30 – The Moon has moved to be just below and to the left of bright Jupiter. Saturday, January 31 – The bright Moon now sits right below bright Jupiter late in the evening. Sunday, February 1 –The Moon now lies well to the right and below bright Jupiter in the late evening. Monday, February 2 – There will be a low ISS pass in the south from 5:20am. Wednesday, February 4 – There will be two ISS passes today with the first in the SW at 5:23am and a second very short one in the evening in the NW at 10:03pm before it disappears dramatically into the earth’s shadow.

Mercury Bay – the sun, the moon and the tides

Wednesday 28 January

Sun: Rise 6:27am Set 8:31pm Moon: Set 12:55am

A BIG THANK YOU

BY PAULINE STEWART

s there any support out there for a huge 'thank you' event of some description, as an appreciation of our volunteers especially FENZ members and CFM?”

This message was sent out on Whiti Chitchat from a very active volunteer in the Mercury Bay community – Alan Sutton. He was overwhelmed with supportive messages stating the volunteer organisations and volunteers deserved a huge thank you. However, a special event for them did not seem to sit well as most of the volunteers don’t want public adoration or special events. They simply want to ensure people are safe and supported and feel in touch with things happening and that some kind of order has been restored out of the chaos that can emerge.

hi ro e h een fi e above and beyond’ across all the centres on The Coromandel and in isolated parts far from townships. Our FENZ volunteers have led the way with their training, expertise and willingness to make their volunteer service a priority and people and community groups near and far have stepped forward to volunteer their resources, time and energy.

The Informer on behalf of so many social media streams and

also on behalf of our own Coromandel CFM radio station, want to offer in print and colour a BIG THANK YOU to all our volunteers – from community groups, neighbours, small and large businesses with equipment and resources, and of course our emergency service volunteers.

A special thank you to CFM for keeping everyone up to date with road and accessibility situations as well as the rain and in forec t . eo e re resured when they know what is happening even if it is not good news.

A BIG THANK YOU to our TCDC staff and Civil Defence and Emergency team: Brian Carter, the Manager of Civil Defence and Emergency Services co-ordinated a well-pre-

pared team attending to it tion re irin f oo contro i e ment tr ffic management, public warnings n notific tion . e o o e with the public via CFM on a number of occasions.

he nformer office i ne t to the TCDC Whtiianga headquarters, and the lights were burning into the night with communication n ehic e tr ffic in and out of the carpark. Staff had co-ordinated with the local Mercury Bay Rugby Club and Hoppers Developments to sandbag truckloads of sand adjacent to the TCDC carpark for f oo thre tene for re i ent in the area. This situation would have been repeated in a similar way in Thames and the other town centres.

More water than could be pumped !

RAIN STORM

JANUARY 2026

BY ROLY CHANEY

We had 45 call outs in 33 hours. he ere f oo in re te . Thirty -three volunteers were working for virtually two days. We began 7.50am on Wednesday and went through until 4.00pm Thursday with a small break between 2.00am and 6.30am Thursday.

We feel very tired but uplifted th t e co he in i nific nt ways. Sometimes we could no longer pump the water because there was nowhere for the water to go. I have lived here for fift fi e e r t h e ne er seen that amount of water, worse than Cyclone Gabrielle, more water and more call outs

A brief break from pumping endless water, for father and son, Derek Collier, Deputy Fire Chief, Whitianga, and Adam Collier.

– more people in trouble. Then we had 30 call outs over 37 hours.

I want to thank the employers of some of our volunteers who so generously go without their personnel. Sometimes they leave their or en to fi ht fire but this past week it has been two ho e of f oo in .

I am also mindful of the huge crifice of o r e f em o e people who give so much time as volunteers in service. A BIG THANK YOU to the businesses and friends and neighbours who brought so much good food and drink to sustain us through the long hours. „ Roly is Fire Chief Whitianga Volunteer Fire Brigade.

YourWeekly Kitchen Calendar

If ever we need to support events –it is these two

Family picnic fun day

We need these two celebrations – hopeful, family and unity focussed. The Waitangi Day event is an invitation to everyone. The local Trust has prepared a great day to remember and mark the signing of the Treaty of Waitangi for the local enin comm nit . here i ome confi ence th t the weather has blown and rained itself out for a while.

So many events have been cancelled and postponed due to weather. It can’t be helped.

For the team organizing the icnic t the hiti n i e r thi i their fo rth

attempt. Such is the commitment from our Lions Club led by event co-ordinator Gilly Needham.

The generous organizers have a very well planned and fun day for our families and

children. Come and spend the time whoever you are. Let’s make it a success by going. The spirit of communities across this country is in its people working together for causes bigger than themselves.

Waitangi ki Whitianga 2026

Nau mai, haere mai to Waitangi ki Whitianga 2026!

When: Friday 6th Feb 2026, 10am-2pm. Whakatau at 9.30am. Where: Buffalo Beach Reserve, Whitianga.

After a successful inaugural event in 2025, Waitangi ki Whitianga is ret rnin ith nother h n f n day at Te Whitianga-nui-a-Kupe to commemorate the signing of Te Tiriti o Waitangi. Featuring live music, cultural performances, market stalls, delicious kai, free kids rides, free face painting and more!

Waitangi ki Whitianga is proudly re ente m n o Whitianga Charitable Trust with f n in ort from e n Hauora Matua o Hauraki, Te Korowai Hauora o Hauraki and Thames-Cor-

omandel District Council. o o m n o hiti n on Facebook and Instagram for the latest event updates!

STALLHOLDER REGISTRATIONS m n o hiti n i ee in stalls offering:

• Delicious kai (food and beverages) nter cti e toi ori ori rt and crafts)

• Hauora services (wellbeing and health)

• Educational opportunities (workshops, resources etc.)

If you’re keen to share your products, services or knowledge with our community, register here: https:// bit.ly/WaitangiRegistration Registrations close: Wednesday 28 January.

8 February 2026

‘I work in a club’ Ray’s Report #11

BY SHAUN FAY

Not full time, on a casual basis. Have done since Covid. I have a manager’s certificate, and I’m trained for the gambling legislation.

The club is in a small beach town with tough opposition. We punch above our weight but it’s not easy, especially through winter.

The clientele is older and several every year don’t get to renew their membership. The future for many of these clubs all over New Zealand is a concern. Several are struggling. And the rules aren’t helping.

n the fi e e r h e been involved the legislation continues to grow and become more confusing. And the bar is busy.

Firstly, getting into the place. It’s a private club, if you wish to consume alcohol you must be member or be a member of an ffi i te c there re hundreds of those. If only one of you is a memberthey must sign everyone else over 18 into the club.

For family groups on holiday this can be a

major hassle. There might be a queue, one of them may have to show ID, Jess is on her phone. If no one is a member, provisional membership is required.

o t . . form to fi in tem or r e issued. Get this wrong and you have the potenti for fine. And they are two deep at the bar.

Okay; you’re in and you’re eyeing up the pokies. The club is required by law to write down everyone who is playing the pokies three times an hour and there is a limit of two ATM transactions across the bar. If players are there longer than three hours, they are encouraged to take a break. In the meantime, Jennie has had a win, pay-

out is needed, slip signed, clear the machine. It’s the bar staff’s job to monitor and police this. And they are four deep at the bar. Add on some dress things like no bare feet – an OSH thing, singlets, gang patches, hats off etc and the bar staff are doing a lot more than serving drinks. Often guests turn away- they can’t be bothered. Others are worried about the information they are sharing and the security of that. Surely the time has come to review some of this. Although judging by the number of training companies springing up, many are not in a hurry. They are now 5 deep at the bar. „ shaun@besidethe seaside.co.nz

Civil Defence Emergencies – e four Rs

Over the past few days, the orom n e enin has experienced some of the heaviest rainfall ever recorded. The northern and e tern rt of the eninffere erio f ooing and a great number of slips resulting in whole communities being isolated and large numbers of visitors driven from their tent sites.

There is a lot about these matters in this issue of The Informer, so I’ll cut to some crucial points.

The NZ Civil Defence Emergency Management (NZCDEM) policies have procedures that are based on fo r fo n tion rinciples: The 4Rs - Reduction, Readiness, Response and eco er . he enin whilst still being in a state of emergency, is clearly in the recovery phase.

During the Reduction phase, it is incumbent on Central and local Government to reduce as much risk as possible. Interestingly, following Cyclone Gabrielle in 2023 there was an opportunity to focus on the reduc-

tion of risk.

Yet almost three years later we had the same issues as post Gabrielle with severe f oo in c ttin off cce to key towns and villages on the Northern and Eastern parts of the Coromandel. Take for example the Weiti stream at the intersection of SH25 and Wade Rd Whitianga. This has f oo e re r re enting vehicular access to the largest town on the Eastern seaboard yet has anything constructive been done to solve this problem? Noditto Dalmeny Corner. Sadly, lost opportunities.

Readiness phase - it is incumbent on all of us to be prepared by being self-reliant and looking out for our vulnerable community members. The TCDC website is full of valuable advice – if only people would follow it Communities need to have the capacity and capability to fend for themselves for those fir t . Response phase - From observations, the TCDC response was well run with CDEM staff and local Com-

munity Response Groups dealing with events in a timely professional manner. The communications were clear and I applaud the Mayor for his clear messaging - declaring a timely State of Emergency. I would note, though, that there is no such thing as a ‘precautionary’ State of Emergency. It either is or is not.

Recovery phase - there is opportunity to put in place the invaluable ‘lessons learned’ by running detailed debriefs and implementing these lessons to prevent the same things happening again.

Mother Nature can be harsh and unforgiving; the next civil Defence Emergency maybe just around the corner. Let’s all follow the 4 Rs and take personal responsibility whilst organisations such as Waka Kotahi, DoC and the TCDC learn from previous events and also focus on the 4Rs. Stay safe.

JANUARY 2026

BY VERNA CARR

AIt’s raining again

fter weeks of glorious summer weather that had locals and holidaymakers alike basking in perfect conditions, nature had additional plans for the orom n e enin .

Wednesday morning, January 21, around 10.00 a.m., mobile phones across the peninsula erupted with an emergency alert that sent chills through the community. MetService had issued a red-level heavy rain warning— the highest possible alert—for our region. The message was stark and urgent: dangerous river con ition i nific nt f oo in and landslides posed a genuine threat to the safety of property and people life.

By midday, Whitianga had transformed into something resembling a ghost town. The usually bustling streets lay eerily quiet, with only a handful of brave(or perhaps out of necessity) souls venturing out into the deluge. Roads in and out of town ere c o e e to f oo in eing our community effectively cut off from the outside world.

Thames-Coromandel District Council had warned of 200250mm of rain expected to fall et een n r . e rainfall rates of 15-25mm per hour were forecast for the 21st, with the possibility of intense localised downpours reaching 25-40mm per hour. These weren't just numbers. They translated to rapidly rising streams and riv-

er rf ce f oo in tre chero slips, and dangerous driving conditions.

he fire iren con t nt i e c in o r o nteer firefi hters to action. These dedicated

Tairua community helps

BY PAM FERLA

Tairua Information Centre manager and Tairua Community Response Group member, Eve Roper, said the community responded to the emergency.

“We’ve had people from the fi hin c rf c r i e m n the c mground as well as others who have turned up with offers of help to those with no access to water or showers.

“This is the one time that the power of Facebook can help because we’ve had lots of offers of furniture and bedding for those in need. There have been incorrect rumours on Facebook, but the upside is this wonderful community of eo e offerin to he .

needed them. Each callout represented someone's emergency.

NEIGHBOURS BECOMING LIFELINES

community members worked tirelessly, clearing fallen trees from roads, pumping water from f oo e ro ertie re irin torm m e n fi in n itributing sandbags to those who

As the rain continued and our community remained vigilant, offici ere r in e er one to take precautions seriously. Floodwaters were to be avoided at all costs, always more dangerous than they appear. Travel was limited to essential trips only. Be prepared to evacuate quickly if con ition or en. o er n communication outages added another layer of challenge to an re iffic t it tion. All surface water was to be treated as contaminated. The rain may be clean when it falls, but f oo ter ic e er thin in its path.

At 11 o'clock on Wednesday night in driving rain, my neighbours had formed a human chain, passing buckets of water off a lawn to re ent ho e from f oo in . eo e c me to ether in cri i in the im e t too to fi ht back against rising water. In the coming days, please check on those around you. This is when community matters most. The Coromandel has weathered storms before, and we'll weather them again.

“I saw water where I have never seen water before and that was in my street. “ I have lived on the enin for e r .

Eve Roper. Peggy appreciated all the help a er ooding

BY PAM FERLA

Community spirit is alive in Tairua and nonagenarian mo t ninet e robie, received plenty of it after Coromandel’s deluge of rain seeped through part of her home on Wednesday night, 21 January.

e i e e i e e e Inlet, which received a massive amount of water during last week’s storm. However, this lively woman with a good sense of humour says she is not fazed about it because it’s all happened before.

Eve pointed out that a lot had been learned since Cyclones Hale and Gabrielle about dealing with such emergencies.

Tairua Community Response Group’s support included door-knocking to check people’s welfare on o nt hich affected by the emergency.

“Last time I had to leave the ho e for nine month he says, as she sits on her bed surrounded by piles of bedding and paintings that have been moved to avoid the very soggy carpet in her bedroom.

“After all that rain early in the week, I knew I’d have a

f oo . o ot e er thin off the f oor n t e ti . m.

On the Thursday a plea on Tairua Chit Chat for towels to help mop the soaked carpet led to lots of people turning up to help.

“I’ve had so many offers of help and appreciate them all. Tairua is known for people who are kind and they offer help in such a nice way. I feel e een re c . e rec on he h iagreeable nature. But it doesn’t show on her face and there seems to be a lot of laughter in conversations.

She is dismissive about her longevity, saying her father brought his family from South Africa to New Zealand when he n i e ti . egy’s mother lived till 89.

“Basically, I’m a matter-off ct er on n ife mo e on.

Prime Minister visits Thames Coromandel

Prime Minister Christopher Luxon visited the Thames based Civil Defence centre this morning before travelling by Airforce helicopter to Tairua to meet some of the people impacted the i on t th t ent through their home and has damaged the water supply impacting a large number of properties in the t icinit .

He was accompanied on the tri or eter e e n oc on cott im on n senior council staff including CEO Aileen Lawrie. Councillor Alison Smith joined the group at Tairua.

The prime minister was shown extensive damage caused by a slip on Motuhoa Road which also affected water supply in the area. He spoke to residents about their experiences.

As part of his time, he spoke with staff and the mayor about the recovery needs of the district following the devasting damage caused by recent weather events.

FROM MAYOR PETER

REVELL SPEAKING ON CFM SUMMARY TO THIS EFFECT

The community emergency response teams report they

h e h h e enefit from the experience of Cyclone Hale and Gabrielle.

h t the rime ini ter h assured us – coming to grips with the national emergency Chief Executive as to the wide spread situation and how they help us in response mode, they have also said “we will stand behind you in the recovery mode. What that response looks like, I don’t know et.

Mayoral Relief Fund: “This is something I have raised last Thursday; having seen what I saw to e o nee ch f n .

SHUTTLE SERVICE

WHITIANGA, HAHEI, HOT WATER BEACH, TAIRUA, COROMANDEL TOWN, MATARANGI

• SEDANS • WAGONS • VANS

Asked about whether people should be coming up for Anniversary weekend; the Mayor responded – We have a lot of people holidaying here and they are thinking about how they can get off the enin . fee in i if you don’t need to be on a road, then stay home and that will help us get the people back home.

FROM HON. SCOTT SIMPSON

Last Friday, after the heavy rain had eased, I spent the morning visiting Thames and Tairua with the rime ini ter to ee the e tent of the torm fir t h n .

Christopher Luxon and I wanted to get out into the community to talk to people affected by the devastation, as well as support the hard working emergency fir t re on er n contr ctor . We were briefed by the Mayor eter e e n hi te m t Thames-Coromandel District Council, as well as staff from the National Emergency Management Agency. It was very obvious that this was a professional group, drawing upon our previous experience with severe weather events. fter the riefin e f e in

an Air Force helicopter to Tairua and caught up with some property owners and members of the community who had been hit by the brunt of storm. The view from above, as well as images which have been shared across social media, illustrate the impact that it has had on our region.

While this weather event has been hugely disruptive and the recovery will take some time, we’ve seen yet again the resilience displayed by so many people in our community. We are incre i e er e fir t responders, roading contractors, and emergency management teams who always do their best to keep people safe and informed during these types of crises. I also want to acknowledge and thank everyone for doing their bit to keep themselves, their neighbours and their neighbourhoods fe fo o in the offici advice and giving responders the time and space to do their job. Sometimes the worst of times brings out the best in people and communities.

he rime ini ter i oon tre in to of ent . he h e a range of issues much worse than what we are facing.

Avoidable property damage

A

BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN

Many residents were concerned as news of the impending rainstorm due to hit The Coromandel came. Some were concerned more than others as their properties had experienced such weather events re io n ne fir t h n of the damage such storms can do and the costs they would be faced with once the storm had passed. One such person was Kevin Shaw who lives on Buffalo Beach Road, Whitianga, on the side alley leading to the Taputapuatea Reserve. The storms of three years ago (Cyclone Hale and Cyclone Gabriellele) had resulted in Kevin’s re i ence ein f oo e from com in tion of the o erf o in of the Taputapuatea Stream along ith e ere f oo in of the torm water drain that runs behind many properties in the area. The torm ter r in f oo in caused by pump failure at the Council pumping facility in Jackman Road. The damage to Kevin’s home eft him ith i fi re cost for the repairs to his home. He did therefore have experience that caused him to be very worried about what was coming with

the approaching storm. Many might read this and think, ‘Why didn’t he do something about it fter the fir t f oo hi i resonable thought to have. After all we have to help ourselves sometimes.

The point is that Kevin, who is a very practical man, experienced in matters to do with water control and drainage; had in fact done quite a lot about it including adding preventative measures to his home and exterior surrounds. He did everything he could possi-

o to re ent f oo in on hi own property. It was beyond the boundary of his property that work was needed. Initially this involved discussions with TCDC staff and an agreement that a simple earth bank of about a metre in height would provide the various residences in the alley with the necessary protection from the o erf o of the tre m n n f oo in of the torm ter r in could have been pumped over the bund. An early estimate of the cost was $10,000 although this

was just an approximation. The Informer published this as part of follow up articles on cyclone recovery in 2023. Unfortunately, this initiative and research was quashed by the TCDC Water Services Manager, the reasons quoted being many and varied.

Kevin’s opinion is that at the time, the reasons given seemed to be fabricated rather than actual.

The next action Kevin took was to make a submission to the new Mercury Bay Community Board, outlining the issue and putting

forward the proposed solution. hi one t the er fir t meeting of the Mercury Bay Community Board which includes elected Council members, Councillor Flemming Rasmussen, Deputy Mayor John Grant and Councillor Tony Brjlevich. As a result of the submissions m e t the fir t meetin ohn Grant and Tony Brjlevich met with Kevin Shaw on site with the Water Services Manager and Group Manager Infrastructure, TCDC. All persons present, with one excep-

tion, were in favour of the work being done forthwith. Deputy Mayor John Grant made it clear the work must be done and indicated it would be done as early as possible. One person present, the Water Services Manager, did not ort the f oo rotection mesure claiming the work would require a resource consent from the Waikato Regional Council.

This appears to be an incorrect claim as a consent is not needed if earthworks are more than 10 metres from a riverbank. If the slope of the land is greater than 15 degrees, that distance extends to 100 metres. In the case of Kevin Shaw’s situation however, the n i f t o the metre itance applies and there was, and still is, no need for consent from the Waikato Regional Council.

Did the Water Services Manager not know this? Was this an excuse to defer yet again work that to him was not considered a priority? No matter what the answer is here, it seems that this behaviour by our Water Services Manager was not competent in terms of knowledge and the comment inappropriate with the presenting facts at hand and the clear expectations of the elected members.

thi e r fir t torm ro e in, Kevin Shaw was a very concerned man.

rom the time of the fir t Community Board meeting and consequent onsite session, there had been no action at all.

Kevin constantly patrolled the reserve observing water levels. He contacted TCDC resulting in Community Board and Council

members diligently coming along to visit the site and observe the ro em fir t h n .

The Water Services Manager also came, only to tell Kevin it didn’t look like much of an issue n th t he o e fine.

A few hours later, Kevin’s home f oo e in.

Because of the extensive protection work Kevin had done, damage was not as bad as the previous inundation with Cyclones Hale and Gabriellele but clearly the damage to his home and others could have been prevented with the building of a simple bund (earth bank). he f oo in i entic to the f oo in three e r o o er-

f o of oth the t te Stream and the storm water drain although it is unclear if there was equipment failure again or the issue was just the volume of water.

The storm water drain is just an open ditch which takes storm water from much of town and directs it to the Taputapuatea stream. If the council actually proceeded to have this open ditch replaced with concrete pipes this, along with the bund, would secure the area. It just needs attitude, planning and a focus on the community.

‘The ‘elephant’ question is,’Who are the decision makers in terms of getting things done? I believe it

is our councillors and community boards and that staff are there to advise but also to actually ensure the work that has been researched and requested, is done. The obstructive attitude and lack of competency in this particular case require some scrutiny.

hi f oo m e i not nee to happen, again!

The Chairman of Mercury Bay Community Board, Richard Shelford-Woodcock had followed up this issue before the storm was on it ecific cont ctin TCDC staff; “Where are you on the submissions made at the Novemer omm nit o r meetin These submissions included that of e in h re r in f oo

protection. The response from TCDC Governance was to this effect, ‘We haven’t yet been given any direction as to how to apply action to the submissions.’ This kind of response is hard to believe when the elections were he in cto er n the fir t meetings of the Community Boards were held early November. ri te enter ri e co not survive with the vary blurred boundaries as to who is in charge. It is just an example, but who implements the wishes of the community once approved by the elected members? I believe the staff of TCDC are accountable to the rate payers and residents through the elected members. There seems to have developed a culture within the realm of TCDC, whereby the message is - ‘elected representatives are there to sign off things when needed but in terms of what needs to operate our community, they can largely be ignored.

hi it tion ith f oo rotection at the Taputapuatea Reserve is an example of this. The Water Services Manager did not heed the instructions of the elected community representatives, showed a lack of knowledge of the related laws, and inability to assess impending risk regardin erf o ter. e m e decisions that led to residents’ properties, Kevin’s was but one, fferin i nific nt m e damage that was avoidable. This is a shameful performance for which there needs to be accountability. Our community deserves better.

BY LILY PAULSEN

LPauanui comes together to help those in need – again

ast week's weather warning which brought in a state of emergency for the North Island and across the Coromandel was, for many, confronting and unsettling.

or n i the re ent e rain began to fall heavily on early Wednesday morning, beginning the start of a tropical cyclone.

o f oo e o er ent o t and the familiar sunshine was quickly drowned out by the high tide. Many streets near the beach and rivers had been f oo e ome to i t hi h water. The roads near the Southend of the beach such as Beach Road, Mount Ave and Holland

o e ere f oo e the mo t n several places in the Waterways.

o n o e h firefi hters in waist deep water around 11am on Wednesday morning, trying to drain the roads and checking in on local residents fter the fir t hi h ti e. fet became a priority, bringing people together quickly. Family and neighbours checked on loved one n o ice n firefi hter worked tirelessly overtime to

ensure people were safe, cared for and their properties were as secure as they could be.

What stood out the most was the community rising to the challenge and taking matters into their own hands. For some households, power went out for two days but friends kindly quickly offered showers, comfort n ce to t . eo e ere ic to m on the n i

facebook group chats to offer their help – sandbags, generators and security, anything they could. The grapevines became a lifeline. Gestures people made may have seemed small, but on a cold wet day when the conditions are low, they mean everything. he n i ec me refuge for those in need too, as ome re i ence off the f oo e

roads evacuated for safety, staying either at friends homes or the recreation centre. The club opened their doors for the Wednesday night to help anyone in need, offering space, kindness and a place to pitch beds.

Amongst all of this, there were sparks of positivity like a silver lining – children playing in the full skate park bowl and family calling on loved ones, little

reminders that in disruption, i ht n hter fin their through.

Wednesday and Thursday in n i ho e th t the weather can test and isolate, but it also brings people together. The clean-up is continuing, and the water has receded, but these three are alive and well – faith, hope and love and no storm can wash that away.

This is your chance to secure one of the very best sections at Wharekaho.

Perched above the coast, these elevated, sun-soaked sites boast sweeping views over the Whitianga Harbour, Front Beach, Flaxmill Bay, Mercury Bay, and the golden sands of Wharekaho.

DON’T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY –SECURE ONE OF THE AREA’S FINEST SITES!

Solutions when it comes to slips

BY ALASTAIR BRICKELL

Our Coromandel coastline is hilly and scenic due to the ongoing battle between the sea and the land. Every hill and mountain on the Coromandel is going to end up in the ocean over time whether we like it or not.

The ocean and the weather combine to relentlessly erode these hills and cliffs. They are perhaps a bit Trumpian in that the nt o r reen n n they will get it! It may take a few centuries or millennia depending on our constructed defences but make no mistake, they will win. The best we can do is to delay it a bit while we make use of the roads and things we have put in the way.

THREAT TO COMMUNITY LIFE AND BUSINESS

This ongoing and unstoppable process was dramatically illustrated by the events on SH25 near the Kuaotunu boat ramp last week. Usually, the process is steady and slow and passes unnoticed but weather events like this one are the way the vast majority of material gets deposited into the ocean in a totally natural process. We build our infrastructure including roads and unfortunately campgrounds between the hills and the sea at

our peril with sometimes tragic consequences.

The mud and rock clearly needed to be removed to reopen the highway but what should be done with it? Every day that this vital road continues to be cut has serious consequences for local business and residents alike.

Common sense would suggest that the obvious and quickest solution would be to just use a bulldozer to push this relatively small amount of muddy material into the ocean to join the vast majority that has already ended up there. Most people I spoke to at the site over several days agreed with this action but there were some in the community who were aghast at this prospect.

They complained that it could make a mess of our lovely beach and their view of the lovely blue ocean or that it will harm the fi h n re e er one ree that we shouldn’t allow anything to go into the oceans.

I fail to understand just why the relatively small amount that we would be adding would be any more harmful than what nature has already done. Yes, the sea may be brown for an extra day or two, but so what? It will be brown for weeks anyway due to what Mother Nature has already put there.

OVERREGULATION PREVENTS THE SOLUTION

Far from being harmful or toxic, these rocks and the mud are exactly what provide the minerals that make the oceans of the world salty and productive. There is no sewerage or bacterial waste in it, just good clean mud which also provides nutrients essential for all living species in the ocean. This common sense approach of just pushing the material into the sea is exactly what was used

by NZTA to clear SH1 after the Kaikoura earthquake. That coastline has already recovered incredibly well after only a few years.

Thanks to our overregulated society, and in particular the Resource Management Act, NZTA decided that it would be sinful to do the same on our bit of SH25.

Consequently, the Kuaotunu clean up involved labourously loading and carting this material to Matarangi to be buried at an approved safe disposal site with the lucky landowner being paid handsomely by us for each trucko of c e n fi ce on hi property.

This ridiculous and totally unnecessary operation required about a dozen staff with an excator n f eet of t e t e en large trucks. There was a diesel truck movement about every 2 minutes over a 20km roundtrip winding up and over a steep hill for about six days. The wear and tear on our fragile and waterlogged roads was considerable and totally unnecessary and I would not e ifie to e en e in to compute what the ‘carbon footprint’ of this wasteful operation might have been. It also puts the personnel involved at the mud face in real physical danger for unnecessarily extended periods as more material on the hillside may well make its way towards

the sea while they are still there. There is no easy escape for an excavator operator when there is a dump truck blocking his exit.

REPEATING OUR FOLLY

All this equipment and staff could have been put to much better use around the peninsula on the multitude of slips both large and small presenting dangerous obstructions on our roads that had to go uncleared for several days as a consequence.

This process is the exact repeat of what TCDC did at the Bluff Road slip between Rings Beach and Matarangi some years ago. That material was largely boulders but even they were not allowed to be pushed off the road to join their brothers and sisters already on the beach a few metres below. They too ended up being slowly carted away and laid to rest in the me n fi t the r te er expense.

This latest event shows exactly why the government’s long overdue reform of the Resource Management Act is essential to get our country moving again. This politically correct but useless waste of manpower, taxpayer money and resources must stop.

Saturday 7 February 7:30pm Tickets: $20

WIN 2 TICKETS

Email: info@theinformer.co.nz with the subject ‘Tickets to Neil Diamond Tribute Show’ along with your name and phone number, or drop your entry into the Crossword/Sudoku box outside The Informer office, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga. Draw will be made on Monday, 2 February. Winner will be contacted by phone or email and published on 3 February.

New Zealand, here we come…

BY DOROTHY PREECE

Dan and Katherine Booher have lived in the same house in Seattle, Washington, USA for the past 40 years, but now they’re well on their to ecomin ermnent New Zealand Residents. Their house in Seattle sold just before they got on the plane for their seventh visit, and four days of torrential rain in Whitianga has not deterred them. The Whitianga visit is part of their on-going exploration of possible places to eventually reside.

The story started in 2011 when their daughter Sarah studied at Waikato University where she met her i i fi nc e e o n . They lived in the States for a while, before deciding to settle in New Zealand. On February 3rd Sarah will be awarded New Zealand Citizenship at a ceremony at Te in e in ton n of course, Dan and Katherine will also be there to celebrate.

Dan and Katherine began

their application to become residents just over a year ago. With Sarah as their only child, they are awaitin confirm tion of their e r rent etirement i ith th to ermanent Residency’, which currently is approved in principle.

“So far everything has gone very smoothly, with good advisors in the States n in e e n n says. “We have undergone

extensive checks (including by the FBI) on family background, medical, and our fin nci it tion.

Their commitment to the Residency goal also involves substantial Government-approved investments in New Zealand.

Katherine says the tax laws and compliances on both sides of the world can be daunting. “We hired immigration and tax advisors to help us navigate through all the paperwork that has no een mitte therine says.

“We both enjoy the outdoors and the open spaces, and we love the relaxed lifet e here.

n former fi re o tic engineer, says he admires the innovative ‘number 8 wire’ approach and they have both really appreciated the open and friendly reception from Kiwis they have met along the way, including at the Mercury ic e .

“Seattle is the original home of pickleball, and e re e i hte to fin it here.

Do you have piano playing experience?

Are you looking for an outlet for your musical talent and the opportunity of working with a team of singers.?

Then this could be just right for you.

Following the retirement of one of our pianists, the Mercury Bay Commu nity Choir is looking for a second pia nist to support our principal pianist, Catherine Lee.

We are a small, friendly non-auditioned choir led by talented, vivacious musical director Kate Nielsen.

What do you need to be a piano accompanist?

APPLICANTS

• Must have a moderate degree of m ic roficienc

• Be willing to learn a diverse range of songs and

• Be available for weekly Monday evening practices during term time as

well as supporting Catherine at choir concerts.

Here are words from Catherine Lee about how it feels to be playing for the choir.

“What I like about being in the choir over the past 6 years is that I have been force to r cti e n m ic th t I would not have done had I not been in the choir and I have really enjoyed that. Most of all I love seeing our choir members being led by our wonderful Director, Kate ,to sing music to such a high standard that I get goosebumps, and every Monday I drive home feeling h to e rt of it.

on 2 February to be part of the fun! Contact: Kate Nielsen 027 270 9058

Simpsons Beach at your feet

Occupying a front-row position on iconic Simpsons Beach, this home is built over a large double site of 1,823 smq (mol) and has been held by one family for more than 40 years. A sweeping 180° panorama stretches across Mercury Bay to Centre Island, visible from nearly every living space. A fully self-contained flat with its own kitchenette, lounge and two bedrooms offers independence, income potential or a private haven for friends. The storage shed by the water’s edge is perfect for storing your beach toys, the boat ramp is ideal for the tractor or sea legs, and a neighbouring private walkway reinforces the ease of true beachfront living. bayleys.co.nz/2202043

Engineering – an opportunity to create balance and restore

Meet Jodie Kocian, an engineer

BY PAULINE STEWART

Jodie loves her job and arrived here from Alberta, Canada 14 years ago. We are fortunate to benefit from her experience and philosophy. The Informer interviewed Jodie briefly following a visit to the opening ceremony of the Hahei water treatment plant in December.

At a time when engineers will be working very hard to remedy the damage following the recent rainstorms, we share some of Jodie’s story and experience.

“I have got a multi-discipline academic past. My first degree was a Bachelor of Science majorin in micro io o .

In Canada, I worked in oilfield development. There are a lot of contaminated sites that were bored in the post-World War Two era, and I gained extended experience on contaminated sites working to remediate them.

That has meant working with the heavy industries and understanding the impact of their mechanical systems. As I went through through my career doing this work, I found that I

with Thames Coromandel District Council.

really enjoyed the healing and restorative aspects of things. I often found myself exploring the question -‘How do we make the world better in a natural way?’

My principal work was being involved in the environment aspect and we could only advise, but I wanted to apply more practical solutions and so decided to turn to civil engineering.

That is what led to my move to New Zealand. I enjoy seeing the actual changes that I have been able to achieve and being part of those positive improvements.

There has to be a balance between the engineering infrastructure and the environment.

I believe my work is about working to achieve that.

We were all effected by the Cyclones of 2023 and it was great to be able to be part of remedying some of the damage.

One of the projects I have led here on the Coromandel is repairing the damage done to the water tanks in the cyclones. We have done three major repairs to drinking water storage in Tairua, Matarangi and Whitianga. This involved minor improvements to the roof structures while at the same time,

we needed to improve the seals around the tanks.

QUESTIONS TO ASK

With these situations, there are a number of things to consider. We are all driven by the almighty dollar, so we always ask ourselves, ‘What are the options for us that are affordable and available? Is it worth doing a full replacement to the entire storage tank or do we just replace what’s broken? Is there something we

Letters to the Editor

ACCOUNTABILITY AND CALLING FOR FOCUS ON INFRASTRUCTURE

We ask for accountability from our Councillors but it would appear that we missed the mark. Council staff have an agenda of their own which needs addressin . iffic tie re rent ith our elected Community Board members being unable to progress their day-to-day business because of deliberate withholding of required information only available from Council Staff.

Mayor Revell stated that all local issues are to be presented to, and dealt with by, our local Community Boards. Why then can they not set their own Agenda to deal with the matters in hand? Why do they have to accept an agenda decided by council staff bad in some cases, also screened by their ward councillors.

This is a contradiction of everythin re tin to thi ne efficienc . n te e h e on oin inefficienc hich e te of time and money.

If TCDC’s focus is seriously on cutting rates and saving funds, then let’s return to the dictates of Central Government.

INFRASTRUCTUREINFRASTRUCTURE and INFRASTRUCTURE!

e e te me ho te m of e i ience t ff re te to nfrstructure? How many are there

and what is their job description?

Why do we have increasing numer of e i ience t ff n ti no evacuation plan for Whitianga?

Mayor Revell was photor he h n in o t certific te of achievement for a Council Employment Scheme. What is the cost of that, and how does it relate to infrastructure?

Council is not an employment agency. Funds continue to be squandered on items/projects that have nothing to do with Infrastructure. Staff numbers continue to increase.

Let’s actually have some honesty and transparency here with a list of all council staff in all areas, together with their key responsii itie ren mer tion fi re . Those who have been there for so long and who are entrenched in a hierarchical role but achieving little need more accountability or have their employment ceased.

I believe we now have some of the best councillors we have had for some time, and we also have a very pro-active teams on our Community Boards.

It is now time for a stepping aside by some and enable the Community Boards to get on and manage their own business.

Leadership is a skill, and it comes from the top.

Ady Cole-Ewen Wharekaho

“I have got a multidiscipline academic past. My first degree was a Bachelor of Science majoring in micro-biology.”

c n re ir th t i fficient nti we have enough money to do the job to a replacement level rather than a maintenance level?’

One of the biggest drivers is, What technology is available to do the job?

BIG DIFFERENCES BETWEEN CANADA AND NZ

When I came here fourteen years ago, I was amazed at the differences in the environment. There is a lot more sensitivity here regarding biodiversity.

Compared to Canade, New Zealand is tiny island and the scale of things is so different. The climate is temperate and temperatures generally mild even a little tropical.

In Canada we have a frozen winter every year. I’m from Edmonton which is known for lots of snow. o e er fin the orom n e robust in terms of its people and the ability of the land to heal.

I have found the summers very

different, and the intricacies of the Resource Management Act were, and still are, a big challenge to get my head around. We had different rules and regulations especially in Alberta. The scale of projects comparing Alberta and New Zealand is very different. In terms of industry, Alberta had big heavy industry. New Zealand is more agriculturally focussed. Dairy is so different from the chemical and construction industry in which I worked.

What would be my dream is to build something that has enough budget to complete to high quality and longevity and that strikes the operative balance between what is natural and what it needs to do to function for our community’s benefit. I am committed to challenging things and to cast my approach in a different way.

“When I’m not engineering, being a volunteer as part of the Moehau Environment group is important to me. Trying my hand at pottery and glazing it is something I enjoy too. I also do a lot of gardening and cooking. My garden is about growing what e c n e t.

The purpose of the Letters to the Editor column is to enable members of the public to express an opinion, about an article or a topic of interest/concern. Please keep them to 200 words or less. These letters do not reflect the editor’s view. The editor reserves the right to edit and decide what is published.

LEADERSHIP UNDER SCRUTINY

fter re in ine rtic e labelled “More or less wrong, ne er ri ht t o n ith m friend, Laura Norder, and discussed it. We agreed that it was not about which way our government leaned but about the absence of media (truth) opinion on the abduction of a country’s leader., Nicholas Maduro. I felt that policeman Trump had done the right thing arresting a person who had allegedly committed a crime. The next step was for this suspect to stand trial. And thus, we saw his trip to the Manhattan Federal Court.

Unfortunately, D. Trump appears to be motivated by greed for fossil fuel resource in Venezuela and regardless of global atmosphere damage is stealing and selling tanker-loads of the black stuff. This is corruption of the policing governance. I had hoped that, at long last, leaders (dictators) were to be held accountable. Our media would tell us which law had been broken. U.N., Venezuelan, Nuremburg, or American law? This will be ground-breaking reporting and puts the media in a very important position.

Now Laura pointed out that world leaders could also appear in court although with the policeman in his own glasshouse. I mused that, who would arrest

tin for rice n r mongering? Why do we continually elect the wealthy to lead us with their self-interest in power?

Peter H. Wood

Whitianga

TIME TO REFLECT – BUT TAKE ACTION

I am talking about the Whitianga Sports Ground, off South Highoe i r o Whitianga.

Whilst this was a wonderful concept developed in early 2000, fee th t it i in t te of im o and it will be lost to the community forever if we don’t take action now.

I have lived and worked in Whitianga for over 40 years and with my wife and family and been involved in many aspects of our community . Now back to the issue of the Whitianga Sports Ground, the integrity of the plan was bold but I feel lost one aspect …..and that was of boating needs.

Without question we live in a town and region with a boating e ement hether it e in fi hing, recreation, employment or sports. Thames Coromandel District Council own and manage the Sports Ground, which was developed by Hopper’s in their Waterway’s plan. It is now time for Council and ratepayers to take action NOW!

I have come up with some sug-

gestions that could speed up the process:

1. Meeting room near entrance ith itchen n office ce - the Yacht Club building would be most suitable . t in o n he com e for concerts, fetes, art shows, sporting demonstrations etc. etc

3. Have meeting room as centre for bookings, park events and the i e ith fin nci m nagement of the site

4. Work with Waterways on their developments in the southern part of the complex

5. Have boating needs of our community as part of Whitianga Sports Ground included in all aspects of the development

In closing, I would like to say th t it i time to ref ect n t e action on the issue of the future of the Whitianga Sports Ground. Noel S. Hewlett, Whitianga WRONG SPELLING - LOST PUN - APOLOGIES

Thanks for publishing my letter regarding a new UK travel policy. I put the title as: Heads up BRITIANGANS, which is a play on Whitiangans….

You unfortunately misspelled that word, so the pun was lost really!

Alistair Bailey Britianga

Poker Run 2026 boosts local Hato Hone St John funds

The message to all riders was “Speed, not at all. Ride according to the road conditions – as the Eagle flies!”

BY VICTOR MCLEAN

Peninsula Riderz Whitianga SMC donated $3,700 to the local Whitianga Hato Hone St John Ambulance team, from this year’s 24th Annual o er n he on t r January. It’s a pleasure to write this account on behalf of The enin i erz hiti n . Breakfast and the first stop: The 2026 ride began with approximately180 riders gathered at the Mercury Bay Club, where we were welcomed with their great hospitality, along with the traditional sausage on bread, tea, and coffee. Riders registered n re their fir t c r for their o er n .

At 10.00am it was stands up, and we were led out by our local Hato Hone Ambulance and First Responder Team. They pulled over at Brophy’s Beach where we began ‘ride your own ride, stay upright, ezy riding, safe roads ahead’.

Second stop: The Corom n e e er ree here we drew our second card and enjoyed their hospitality.

Third stop: Tapu Tavern for the third card draw.

Fourth stop: Our home bar, the Coroglen Tavern, where we stopped for lunch and drew the fourth card.

Final card draw: Then it was back to the paddock for the fin c r r fo o e nno ncin the o er n winner and giving out the spot prizes donated by our generous sponsors.

It was a good day with dry roads, safe riding, and the t nnin cener of the eninsula enjoyed by riders from across the region, including the Far North (Moerewa), Whangarei, Hawke’s Bay, Napier, Tauranga, Taupo, Rotorua, Opotiki, the East Coast, Waikato, and more.

Back in the paddock, we settled in for the evening, mutton on the spit, thanks to the great ho it it from the eninsula Riderz kitchen crew. The camaraderie among riders is hard to beat, good yarns, plenty of laughs, and a classic

night rocking to the Captain Snappy band.

Appreciating our sponsors, we asked Gilly Needham and Dayle Baker from the Lions Club, who have been sponsors since the early years, to hand over the funds raised to Sheryl Humphris, Northern Coromandel Group Manager at the Whitianga Hato Hone, St John. We thank all our sponsors and riders for the support we receive every year. The sponsorship from our local businesses shows just how much our community values and appreciates our local Hato Hone for the great work they do. Until next year let’s ride!

. Victor is one of the founders of the Peninsula Riderz Whitianga SMC.

Jeff Carse (Snippy) won the Pepper Tree bike pick of the day. Snippy and his Harley, the only bike and rider that have done every Poker Run since it started in 2003 – 24 years!

SPONSORS - THANK YOU FOR YOUR SUPPORT Johnny Simpson, Hoppers Construction, Christensen Cartage, i enin i ion hiti n ire ri e he erc r e er ree orom n e ern oro en Tavern, Charles Workshop, Bobs Takeaways, Whitianga Ice, The Lost Springs, The Coromandel Informer, Hamr Homes, Ben Mac Electrical, Christian Electrical, NV Triumph Motorcycle’s Morrisville, Biker Mumma Ann Hamilton, Whiti Farm r enin ome i i n me rine t Green by Nature, Overdrive Total Automotive, B Stitched, Gull service station, Mobile service station, ERL Eastern Recre tion t erc r o i r e itchen he ffice coffee ho i h ho ter ott e .

FOR THIS WEEK

MONDAY

4 FEBRUARY

THURSDAY 5 FEBRUARY

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Crossword Puzzle

to reach us by 12:00pm on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from the New World checkout manager directly.

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Win a coffee andamuffin from Espy Café in Whitianga. Hand deliver, mail, scan/ photograph or email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@ theinformer. co.nz to reach us by 12.00 noon on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from Espy Café directly.

For last week’s solutions see the classified section.

and column, and every group of 9 boxes inside the thick lines, must contain each number only once.

What’s On

OP SHOPS

Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop –Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every Mon-Sat 10am-2pm.

St John Opportunity Shop – 29 Albert St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Fri, 9.30am-4pm and Sat 9.30am-2pm.

St Andrew’s Church Op-shop – Owen St, Whitianga. 9.30am-1pm Wed-Sat. Social Services Op-shop –15 Coghill St, Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9.30am-2pm. Donations welcome. SPCA Op-shop –2 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open Mon-Sat 9am-5pm and Sun 9am-4pm.

MONTHLY

AA Driver Licensing – NEW LOCATION. Tuesday 27 January, Friday 13 February. Whitianga Community Service Trust Centre, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga.

American Muscle Street and Custom Club Whitianga – meetin fir t n of the month, 11am at Buffalo Beach Reserve for cars and coffee. hone e n ie mith on . Cooks Beach Garden Circle –Last Thurs of the month 11.15am-2.30pm. New members welcome. h nne on for more inform tion. Craft Group – eet fir t t r of the month 10am-3pm at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Dr, carpark end. Work on your own craft (stitching, colouring in, scrapbook, card making anything goes). Bring your lunch and enjoy mixing with other crafty people. Any queries ph Alison 021 0508 772 or Sally 027 3962 383.

Kūaotunu Dune Care – Every third Wed of the month. To get involved, please email kuaotunudunecare@gmail.com.

Hospice Waikato’s Bereavement Support Group – Lost a loved one? Join Hospice Waikato’s monthly bereavement support group. Connect over morning tea with others who understand. Held on the fourth Tuesday of each month. 10.30am to 12.00pm at Whitianga Social Services. Registration required. Contact Hospice Waikato to register at 07 859 1260. Mercury Bay Model Railway Club – Monthly meet. Contact. Damon 0273551650 Mercury Bay Shooting Federation – Muzzle o er rimfire centre fire mi it r i to . m i mbsfsecretary@gmail.com

Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club) Fourth Monday of every month, 10am at the Mercury Bay o in oo ri e hiti n . hone o on 021 264 3753.

Tairua Market takes place on the 1st Saturday of the month all year at Tairua Community Hall, 9am till 1pm. Food, fruit and veges, crafts, clothing, home decor, plants, furniture, books and much more. FORTNIGHTLY

Greeting Card Making – The second and fourth ri of the month m m t t eter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. All materials provided. Contact Rev. Gillian Reid on 021 781 081 or just turn up.

Knit for a Purpose – First and third Fridays of the month m m t t eter the i herm n n t. h i i n ei on for further details, or just turn up. Mercury Bay Creative Fibre – Spin, knit, weave, crochet. First and third Wednesday every month, m m er room of o n . hone e 021 274 7899. Email suzyed@outlook.com Mercury Bay Quilters – m m on the fir t n third Mondays and second and fourth Saturdays of each month. Contact Margaret on 021 140 4016. Whitianga Tramping Group – Every second n t . m. hone or Lesley 021 157 9979 for more information.

WEEKLY OR MORE

Alcoholics Anonymous – The Whitianga Big Book ro meet e er h r t . m t t eter the i herm n h rch n treet. hone AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) for more information. Al-Anon Serenity Group – For those affected by someone else’s drinking. Every Wednesday at . m. hone ine on for more info.

Boys Brigade – An adventure, activity, and values based ministry for boys. For boys aged 5-13 years old. Tues 5.30-7pm For information contact Robyn 020 409 39674.

Chess Club – s 6.30-9.30pm, MB Bowling Club. er of e e . o t . ont ct rett o ne 0272117195 or brettsoanes16@hotmail.com Chinwag Café – Every Friday from 10.30am12.30pm at Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Drive. A place for over 50s to meet other people, enjoy a cup of tea or coffee and have a chinwag. Coroglen Farmers Market every Sunday until Easter at Coroglen Gumtown Hall (SH25), from 9am-1pm.

Coffee and Discussion Group – Every Sunday, 2-4pm, at The Lost Spring. Topics are open and re ect ho n. o ch r e. on ener eter . oo . Cooks Beach Care Group – on summer break back early February. To learn more: www. cooksbeachcaregroup.org.nz; www.facebook.com/ oo e ch re ro Cooks Beach Indoor Bowling Club – Wednesday at

If you have an activity or group or the existing information is incorrect, let The Coromandel Informer know. Call 07 866 2090, email info@theinformer.co.nz.

Our What’s On page is not guaranteed to run every week as often space is restricted. Consider paying for a classified advert if you want to guarantee your activity runs every week.

1.45pm. Come and join us at the Community Centre (Hall). New members are most welcome, please contact Coral ph. 0212303944.

Coromandel ‘Growers & Artisans Market’ When: Every Saturday from 9am - 1pm Where: The Anglican Church Hall, Coromandel Town.

Dog walking group – Every Thurs, 2pm, Lovers Rock, Robinson Road. All breeds and sizes welcome to er oci e ro . h enn on .

Elevate Fitness – Strength and balance class using chair, sitting and standing exercises – Monday and and Thursday 9:00am Whitianga Town Hall, $10, ACC approved. Aqua Fit Water Workout, Hot Water Beach Resort, $20 including soak in spa, 11:30am Monday and Thursday. Movement to Music exercise class – strength & cardio, The Embassy of Friendship, Coghill Street. Call Nicole 021 0265 2693.

Hahei Contract Bridge Club – Every Tuesday 12.30pm at the Hahei Community Hall. Learners and casual welcome. Contact Don Barry 021 741 959 or Robyn Hogg 021543015.

Meditation Classes – Thursday evening. Spiritual, heart, soul development. Sacred energy, chakra activations, working with spiritual guides. Open forum conversation, Thursdays, 6.30pm at Flat 1, 15 Mill Rd, Whitianga. Cost $10. Contact Verna 027 320 0079, vernajcarr@gmail.com.

Mercury Bay Badminton Club – Thurs 5-7pm, co rt t m. e e note c ni ht currently limited to existing club members due to high attendance levels. Contact: Steve 027 211 3568

Mercury Bay Badminton – Every Wednesday 9-11am, at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Social badminton. Casual players and visitors are e come. er of e e e . hone ro 027 474 7493 for more information.

Mercury Bay Bowling and Sports Club – 92 Cook Drive, Whitianga. Social Bowls, Thursday & Sunday at 12.30pm, Contact Steve Williams 027 855 2772.

Mercury Bay Bridge Club – Our Club sessions start in rin the fir t ee of e r r . For more information, phone Gavin on 021 146 9203.

Mercury Bay Community Choir – Meets Mondays 6:00pm to 8:00pm at the music room Mercury Bay Area School. Friendly inclusive non auditioned choir. All welcome. For enquiries phone Kate 027 2709058.

Mercury Bay Environmental Trust – Every Tues and Fri from 9-11am, location advised prior. For more inform tion hone e e email mbenvironmentaltrust@gmail.com or go to www.mbet.co.nz.

Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club – Will recommence in rch hone her 7887 or Sandie 021 825 667 for more information.

Mercury Bay Pickleball Club - At the Mercury Bay Area School Gymnasium, Tuesdays Members n . . m t r oci e er . . m n er m. em er

Visitors & Guests $5, a complimentary session is available to new players wanting to trial pickleball. em er hi i on n c n e com ete online at www.mercurybaypickleball.co.nz Contact on . erc r ort r sessions are weather dependant & advised on our f ce oo e erc r ic e . t r n i t i o rt h r m inter m

(Summer) Saturday 9-11am Contact Grant 022 383 . hei enni ic e h r Sunday Contact Tim 027 843 2683 or refer their facebook page.

Mercury Bay Squash Club – New members/ enquiries to Dawn Thurgood mercbaysquash@ gmail.com

Mercury Bay Table Tennis – Every Tues, 9-11.30am at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. e come. h nne on or 5575 for more info.

Mercury Bay Tennis Club – Social tennis at Lyon r on h r t . m. e come. h on 022 186 7992 or Carl 027 680 5570. Oneness Meditation Centre – The centre focuses on the meditative art of going deeper within. Learn how to meditate, breath, calm the mind, relieve stress, anxiety and be a calm, peaceful, courageous, dynamic human being. Every Monday, 9.30-11.00am. Further info. text Linda 027 650 4881 or email linda_c@orcon.net.nz

Self-defence classes – Town Hall, Tues/Wed . m. h on .

Spiritual Conversation Mornings – Every Tues and Wed, 10.30am-12pm, 15 Mill Rd, Whitianga the Starlight Centre. Grab a coffee and join in some great conversation where we talk about topics and subjects that have meaning. $5 donation. Contact Verna 027 320 0079. Tai Chi for all levels – Town Hall, Mondays 6-7pm. o coin on tion. h on for more info.

Tairua Contract Bridge Club – Every Monday at 12.30pm at the Tairua Bowling Club, 44 Hornsea Rd. Contact Lynnette Flowers 021 252 4709 or Johanna Bonnar 027 466 3726. Whenuakite Area Playgroup – 9.30am-12.30pm

every Wednesday morning at the Hahei Community Centre. Ages newborn-5years. We invite all parents, carers, visitors and grandparents. Contact whenuakiteareaplaygroup@gmail.com

Whitianga Art Group – Every Thurs/Fri 10am4pm, 23 School Road. Visitors and new members e come. hone r ret on for more information.

Whitianga Menz Shed – NEW LOCATION - 18 Abrahamson Drive, Open Tues/Thurs, 9am-12 noon. hone enn . e come. Whitianga Playcentre – Every Tues/Fri 9am-12 noon, 1F White St. Contact whitianga@playcentre. org.nz or 027 880 3947.

Whitianga Senior Citizens Club – Indoor bowls and card games. Mondays at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk St, 1pm-4pm. Join us for a fun time n fternoon te e ro . hone ione Lawrence (president) on 027 274 6964 for more info.

Whiti Stitchers – Embroiderers meet every Tues 9am start. For more information phone Margaret on 027 7802 744. All levels welcome.

Women’s Wellbeing and Weight Loss Whitianga – Wed 5-6pm, Room 10, Whitianga Social Services, 2 Cook Dr. Support to lose weight wisely. Check out our Facebook page or phone Cecily on 027 294 1750 for more information.

Yoga for Everyone e inner retiree inf e i e welcome. Tues 5.15pm, Thurs 4.20pm, Fri 8.45am, Sat 8.15am. Gentle Simple. $25/90 minute session.

Txt Rosemary 0274 489326 for info.

DANCING

Argentine Tango Dance Class – Fridays, Town Hall, Whitianga, 5.30-7.30pm. No prior experience or partner necessary. Text Sergio for questions 027 410 2454

Belly Dancing – Contact Catherine Corcoran, 021 210 2438 or smile@catherinecorcoran.com. Weekend classes twice a month at 4pm. Mercury Bay Line Dancing Club – Tuesdays beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, Seniors 12.45-2.30pm; Thursdays absolute beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, improvers/seniors 12.45-2.30pm. Contact Margaret 027 463 8850 or Glynis 021 1099 155.

Silver Swans Adult Ballet Class - Tuesday’s weekly 10am to 11.10am $20, Whitianga Town Hall supper room. All ages welcome. Marilyn Swan,experienced professional teacher of Dance.M: 0273365263 E; swanebbs@gmail.com

Whitianga Line Dancing Club Classes – Town Hall, Monk St, $7 per session. New Beginners, Wed 2.303.30pm, Beginner/Improver classes Monday 10.3011.45am, Intermediate classes Wed, 12-1.30pm; . Contact Kathy 027 4321 353 or Cecily 027 294 1750 Zumba – Wednesdays at 5.30pm at gym for Zumba and Step Zumba on Mondays at 4.45pm at the Whitianga Town Hall in Monk St. GROUP INFO

Mercury Bay Athletics – For info contact mercurybayathletics@gmail.com

Mercury Bay Lions Club – New members are e come. m i merc r ion @ m i .com. hone Cecily 027 253 3088 or Chrissy 021 177 4226. SeniorNet Whitianga Incorporated – Learn more about new communications and information technology. Contact Sheryll Carruthers 021 022 62504 or email seniornet.whitianga.admin@gmail. com.

Whitianga Bike Park – 144 Moewai Rd, Whitianga. Open 24/7. Many bike tracks available, picnic areas, BBQs and walking trails. Donations welcome on entry. If you wish to volunteer or for programme enquiries, contact John 027 366 4606. Whitianga Gun Club – For information, phone Mike Deverell 0274 959 477 or Graham Sutcliffe on 021 846 655.

Whitianga Community Patrol – Monitors the township and neighbourhood. If interested in volunteering, ph Gary 027 391 3043.

GREY POWER

Please save the date for our first Grey Power coffee morning of 2026: 12th February at the Mercury Bay Club. 10.30am start. We’re e e to h re th t o r fir t e t e er for the year will be the Community Resilience team from Thames-Coromandel District Council Civil Defence, who will talk about practical preparedness, local support, and how communities can look after one another during emergencies.

Wharekaho and Simpson’s Beach Ratepayers’ Association

CHANGE OF

MEETING DATE

e e note th t the meetin h een postponed to 3.00 pm on Saturday, 7 February 2026 (the Saturday of Waitangi weekend) at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street, Whitianga.

Murray Ward Chair

With the isolation of the east coast communities by the recent extreme weather, it was appreciated that the electricity did not go off for most homes and for those who lost power, it was not off very long. So much of our modern homes depend on the 240 supply, especially lighting.

Thumbs Up to the residents of Paku Hill, Tairu whose water supply was cut off for three days. People shared and the water tanker arrived but it meant carrying buckets and long walks up and down and around that hill. Thumbs up to the engineer plumbers who fixed the pipes broken from a big slip.

Trades & Services

Phone: 022 3123

Email: mikehoey66@gmail.com

Classifieds

Advertisement of Application for Putting Company into Liquidation r31.9(6)

This document notifies you that:

1. On 18 December 2025, an application for putting Soul Traders Whitianga Limited trading as Bottle- Whitianga into liquidation was filed in the High Court at Tauranga. Its reference number is CIV 2025-470-227. The application is to be heard by the High Court at Tauranga on the 16 February 2026 at 10:00am.

2. A person, other than the defendant company, who wants to appear on the hearing of the application must file an appearance not later than the second working day before that day.

3. The statement of claim and the verifying affidavit may be inspected at the registry of the Court or the plaintiff’s address for service.

4. The plaintiff is Campari New Zealand Limited, whose address for service is at 4A Shamrock Drive, Kumeu, Auckland. The plaintiff’s solicitor is Ivan Milan Vodanovich of Vodanovich Law.

Dated 27 January 2026

Notice that Property will be Sold or Leased

To: Stewart Reginald Pask

TAKE NOTICE that the property situated at 983 Tuateawa Road, Waikawau, Little Bay, Coromandel Peninsula, being Lot 17 Deposited Plan South Auckland with Certificate of Title identifier SA14B 868, is subject to a judgment for unpaid rates due by Stewart Pask, as given in the District Court of New Zealand at Hamilton on 2 November 2020, for the sum of $4,444.74 owed to the Waikato Regional Council. Subsequent rates, penalties and costs have increased the amount owed to $9,711.40. The Thames-Coromandel District Council is owed $28,217.34.

FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that the said property will be sold or leased by public tender or auction, under the provisions of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002, after 6 months from 23 December 2025, unless the outstanding amount of the judgment and costs, interest, all legal costs incurred by the Waikato Regional Council, and all rates due on the property up to the date of payment and applicable charges are paid to the Waikato Regional Council and the Thames-Coromandel District Council. Contact the Waikato Regional Council to remedy the rates arrears on the property identified in this notice by calling 0800 800401 or write to Private Bag 3038, Waikato ail Centre, Hamilton 3240.

Notice that Property will be Sold or Leased

To: Anthony John Haddock

TAKE NOTICE that the property situated at 133 Paul Road, Pumpkin Hill, Coromandel Peninsula, being Lot 1 Deposited Plan South Auckland with Certificate of Title identifier 195916, is subject to a judgment for unpaid rates due by Anthony Haddock, as given in the District Court of New Zealand at Thames on 4 September 2023, for the sum of $4,487.22 owed to the ThamesCoromandel District Council. Subsequent rates, penalties and costs have increased the amount owed to $10,997.82. The Waikato Regional Council is owed $2,005.61.

FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that the said property will be sold or leased by public tender or auction, under the provisions of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002, after 6 months from 29 December 2025, unless the outstanding amount of the judgment and costs, interest, all legal costs incurred by the Thames-Coromandel District Council, and all rates due on the property up to the date of payment and applicable charges are paid to the Thames-Coromandel District Council and the Waikato Regional Council.

Contact the Thames-Coromandel District Council to remedy the rates arrears on the property identified in this notice by calling 07 8680200, or by email to customer.services@tcdc.govt.nz, or write to Thames-Coromandel District Council, Private Bag 1001, Thames 3540.

SKIPPER WANTED

Men’s Club Record and Pin Fish

Huge congratulations to the duo onboard Hard Yards yesterday, with angler Johnny Monrad in GSD Construction Ltd. Johnny landed a monster of a Big Eye Tuna, pulling the scales down to 109.24kg and absolutely smashing the previous MBGFC men’s club record of 22 years (64.6kg) on 24kg! in 2004, caught in hi me fi h c me in on the t of he cific o t Marine and Diesel Top 10 Tuna om etition hich fini he t Saturday 17 January. It was the innin fi h ei hin in on the t . t re m nificent Big Eye Tuna. Note: in i h i r e to catch of 100kg or over.

RESPONSE FROM INCUMBENT RECORD HOLDER

“A big congratulations for catching a fish of a lifetime, a proper one. I am happy to hand over the record after 22 nervous seasons. Well done John Monrad.” (From Facebook)

JOHN PEDERSEN TELLS THE STORY OF HIS WINNING CATCH

“The tournament was called The Top Ten Tuna Tournament We were in a 17 foot 9’’ power boat called Touchy Subject owned by . m te ho fi hing form a big launch had brought in e o t n on the fir t day and we thought ‘oh well, he has won the tournament. We h m re o t the fir t and were catching Skipjack Tuna ro n the t e on the fir t ni ht we decided to forget all the small lures and just have the big lures o t. e fi e the o t ith et-

rol and we cruised at 20 knots for about two hours – the islands looked very small. We were doing a big loop, paused, and the sun disappeared behind a big rain cloud.

We decided to put down our lines. Suddenly, both rods went down and my rod stayed down n fi ht ith thi i e e n began. Finally, we got it alongside the boat and on the third attempt we landed it in the boat. As per usual, we reported over the radio th t e h n e fi h.

My friend who had caught the e o fin t n r ioe to

o i i th t fi h i it i er than mine? I’ll meet you at the back of Ohinau Island. Our boats parked alongside with a couple of bottles of beer to share and when m frien the fi h he ore. Our little power boat followed their launch home and when we weighed in at the wharf, it was just a little bit more than my friend’s catch - 64.6 kg. The reason my record has stood so long is because of the weight of the line. I used 24kg line -there are so much bigger tuna caught but with a heavier line weight. I see Alan rocotr recent c ht m ch

MOVIE OF THE WEEK

bigger tuna on a 15kg weight line. Well done Alan!

JUNIOR CLUB RECORD AND ALSO A PIN FISH on r t tion to chie eersen for weighing in a 141.7kg bronze whaler shark on 24kgs line last weekend. We don’t often get these weighed hence why this is no bronze whaler section displayed in the MBGFC yearbook records. This capture means that have we created a new section

in the junior records to acknowle e n recor chie fi h. Congratulations Lachie, this is o in i h.

On another note, Mac Muirhead (J) weighed a bronze whaler shark during the junior tournament earlier this year weighing in at 110.94kgs on 60kg line but unfortunately was missed due to no section in the yearbook. Congratulations to Mac this is now also recorded in the junior records.

Whitianga Boat Repairs

We specialise in woodwork repairs & maintenance, including teak decks & platforms, insurance and rot repairs, plus we t new transducers, anchor winches, bow thrusters and more.

Mitch has over 40 years experience with an Advanced Trade Cert Wooden Boat Building quali cation to back it up!

Phone or email for info E: info@whitiangaboatrepairs.co.nz

Mitch 027 4852046

Phyll 027 4852036

Practical legal advice for doing business in the Coromandel and beyond

• COMPANY AND COMMERCIAL LAW

• COMMERCIAL LITIGATION

• RESTRUCTURING AND INSOLVENCY

• PROPERTY LAW

• MEDIATION (ADR)

• RELATIONSHIP DISPUTES / PROPERTY

Phone 021 594 705 FRasmussen@coromandelchambers.co.nz