Issue 1224 25 August 2026 by theinformernz

Te Kai Whakarongo

CONNECTING COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE COROMANDEL PENINSULA Issue 1224 | 25 August 2026 | Proudly locally owned and operated

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We’re ready – six funds to boost Coromandel’s future BY PAULINE STEWART

ix future funds have been set up – all part of one foundation. Momentum Waikato has been working closely with our five major townships to create a locally based system whereby their motto of ‘Generosity that Delivers – Now and Forever’ can be fleshed out among us as a Coromandel wide future fund. The Informer recently interviewed Stephen Town, as the Fund Champion of the Coromandel Future Fund as part of Momentum Waikato. Stephen got me reading the 2025 Annual Report of Momentum Waikato to understand how the work of Coromandel Peninsula’s future

funds sit. There is no doubt that The Informer is partial to this achievement and believes it can work well locally. The situation in New Zealand is that our rates and taxes will not be able to cover much more than streetlights, water infrastructure, waste disposal, curbing and channeling and ACC. “Nice-to-haves might be in a

Daffodil Day. See page 2

Long-Term Plan, but apart from providing the basic infrastructure for a project, that is the limit of what council resources can do into the future. These words published by Waikato Momentum’s Chair, Margaret Wilson, describing the reason for Momentum Waikato make sense for the Coromandel’s future. “Inspiring and enabling generosity; offering personal and organization endowment funds that amplify and sustain the charitable aspect of bequests and savings; building an endowment fund pool and investing in projects that generate transformational impact” within and/or across Coromandel communities. Continued on page 3

Warehouse Stationery opens in Whitianga. See p6

“This is a momentous opportunity, but it is slow-burning and has not yet grasped the hearts of Coromandel Peninsula people.” – Stephen Town, Fund Champion of the Coromandel Future Fund and Trustee of the Momentum Waikato board.

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Pauline’s Piece

Care and love – little reward

here is a town cat who has three carers. I am one of them. The others are Margaret and Noelene. I’m in the team because the cat resides under The Informer office. She used to belong to a house and shop that was pulled down due to asbestos. The cat never wanted to leave so adopted underneath our office and was fed daily by her owner, Jack, who would come every day to feed her. Jack died but the cat stayed. She lets Margaret and Noelene stroke her but not me. When I give her some steak, I get quite close but no affection. A crisis has occurred because a junior cat, has adopted the office. She announced her arrival a week ago though she has a home 100 metres away. I feed her morning and afternoon. The crisis is the

old girl hates her and as much as I try to get junior to go to her own home; nothing works. They hiss at each other. This kitten is very affectionate – I stroke her – she loves it. But my heart is with the old cat – the one who has prior right – the least affectionate. She needs the care. Some human relationships are like that. I say give the love to the one who needs it most but expresses it the least and do it willingly

even if it is not returned. I took a risk with our little business this last fortnight and published an 8 page insert that went into two Auckland papers. – The Eastern Times and the Franklin Times. The theme was “Get Yourself to Whitianga.” Thank you to those who shared the risk. We didn’t have time to approach businesses generally. We asked those who were at MBBA and a few believers. Look it up – with the QR code below or try the link https:// issuu.com/times_e-editions/docs/eastern_times_ august_21_2026 and tell me what you think. I would ilke to promote all of the Coromandel this way. We had to start somewhere. Hey there is still time to be in Your Summer magazine – give me a call or send an email to info@ theinformer.co.nz.

Be in the summer magazine

Link to the Eastern Times insert.

For more information contact us now before it’s too late. Bookings close 31 August 2026 P: 07 866 2090 • E: sales@theinformer.co.nz www.thecoromandelinformer.co.nz

Daffodil Day this Friday

Get some cash out ready to give the collectors in your community or township. Eftpos is available in some of the main locations such as New World and Woolworths and main street locations and QR codes on posters can be scanned for you to give. However, having some cash on hand will make it possible for you to give wherever you are. Some towns are offering opportunities to donate and will be very busy this Friday and Saturday collecting for the work of cancer support and cancer research. Whitianga Whitianga Lions Club will be collecting from the businesses in the Moewai Road Industrial area and have a resident table at Coro Club, that wonderful Café near the Whitianga Airport. Mercury Bay Lions Club collectors and Cancer Society volunteers will be out and about at New World and Tangos in Albert Street, and at Buffalo Beach 4 Square. Woolworths will have volunteers on Saturday. The Lions Club will be collecting from the businesses in the Moewai

Road Industrial area and have a resident table at Coro Club. Thank you to Jan White and Ann Mulcahy for their organisation of volunteers and ensuring coverage of Mercury Bay. Hahei and Cooks Beach will have collectors in their main shopping areas on Friday. Thames – Goldields Mall and Harcourts Rentals. Coromandel township – Tennis Clubs pop-up stores and raffles on the main street. Tairua – Harcourts office in the main street in Tairua on Friday and Saturday. Pauanui Information

Centre are doing a cake stall on Friday 28 and Saturday 29 August to support daffodil day. Cancer Society Harcourts Rentals in Paeroa, Thames, Waihi. Paeroa – Harcourts Luncheon at Paeroa RSA already held Monday this week. Waihi – Waihi college, Harcourts, Waihi RSA. Whangamata – look out at our local supermarket and on the main street or at New World. Daffodil Day relies on local volunteers (often representing their local Cancer Support organisation) working collaboratively with the Waikato/ Bay of Plenty Cancer Society.

Early winter mornings at The Lost Spring www.thelostspring.co.nz 2 | The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026

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Less talk – bringing local projects to reality with local future funds Continued from front page Q: Why do we need six future funds? “We have set up one future fund for each community – Thames, Whangamata, Tairua/Pauanui, Mercury Bay, Coromandel/Colville, and one fund to cover the whole Coromandel. Each community has its own needs but there could be projects which will, by their nature, cover the whole Coromandel Peninsula community. “If we can link up willing donors with projects that people genuinely want to happen, Momentum Waikato has got all the framework requirements covered. “It might take 10 years for Momentum Waikato with Coromandel’s six Future Funds to become a well-known feature as to how to get projects funded on the Coromandel. To start, it could only take one successful project when people grab hold of a vision that they can see will benefit and serve their town or region into the future and donors also believe in that as a legacy; then the framework of Momentum Waikato is there for the Coromandel Future Funds to do their job. “Once the philanthropy starts to flow, each community will have

to agree on priorities – no flip flopping. Locals must make the distribution decisions regarding funding. No committee or person can come into an established community and impose a vision or idea. Every project is an emotional commitment as well as a financial commitment. It belongs to the community, and its sustainability is connected to the emotions and values of that community”. Q: What are the advantages of setting this up as part of Momentum Waikato? “This setting up of a future fund for each ward means funds raised are not wasted on administration and branding, promoting and managing one cause. “Momentum was set up in 2013; has a firm financial basis and their structure will look after the Coromandel’s interests. They have all the skills to managing funds and can help to set priorities. “There is no distribution from a Future Fund until a minimum of $50,000 is available for distribution; that is after investment returns cover inflation and a bit more. This practice banks the benefit of compounding returns.” Q: With lots of uncertainty about the future form of local government, does a new amal-

gamated local government boundary and infrastructure pose any threat to the autonomy of these Coromandel future funds? “Not in any way. What we have done with the deeds of each of the future funds is locate them within each of the Wards in the TCDC area so no one is going to lose sight of that. It is legally sound.” Q: How did you get involved? “Firstly, I am a veteran in the public service. I believe in the serving the people aspect. I have worked many years with Auckland City Council especially working to get traction on developments in the transport area and assisted with post Cyclone Gabrielle recovery on the Coromandel. “I became involved through a chance meeting with Peter Farmer and the previous CEO of Momentum Foundation. We had worked together previously in philanthropic fields. Peter laid out a challenge regarding the Coromandel Peninsula. It was this:- “We need to have a goal. We need to grow Momentum Foundation so that it can serve as a major community funding approach. “I could see Peter was very keen on specific targets. I was living in Whangamata and for me person-

Concept Plan for the Whangamata Community Marae and Wellbeing Hub.

ally, the pieces of the puzzle fell in place. “I said to Peter Farmer and to Momentum, “I’d like to help. I’m very happy to carry this vision on – I’ll join the Board as a Trustee if I’m invited to do so. This is a voluntary role and one I believe in. I believe in promoting the Future Funds at a pace the community can respond to. It’s a slow burn that will create its own energy. “For example, in Whangamata there is a project – ‘Community Centre and Marae’. Council has enabled the land to be used for this purpose for a peppercorn rental. “It will need an injection of philanthropic funding to bring it to a reality.” (The Informer immediately thought of the much spoken about visions of 1) The Moewai Sports Park in Whitianga – finishing and expanding it – so often promoted

by the late Noel Hewlett; and 2) The Thames Swimming complex finding a new venue). Stephen smiled from his own experience, perhaps with Auckland City Council. “With a project that a community believes in and when it reaches out to link with philanthropic funding, there needs to be one business case presented clearly, not 20 which has happened with some projects.” Email: stephen.town60@ gmail.com Editor’s Note: Now the task ahead is to find a champion for each of the local future funds on the peninsula. Mercury Bay has Geoff Balm, a semi-retired local Chartered Accountant and accomplished sportsman. Peter Farmer, founder and previous owner of Farmer Auto Village Bay of Plenty and The Coromandel.

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Private Hire Charters • Auckland Airport Transfers 4 | The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026

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EVENTS – TWO GREAT EVENTS ON ONE WEEKEND

Whitianga Oceans Festival

Less than a month to go! Get your tickets! With the marina as your backdrop, great entertainment on stage and plenty to eat and drink, the Whitianga Oceans Festival is a standout event on the Coromandel calendar. This year’s festival will bring together live music, local food, and a full day of coastal vibes - all wrapped in our Coast Meats Country theme. Expect a full day of live music – the line-up is fantastic - Brad Cox from Australia, The Western Guide, Automatic 80s and Vegas Brown and band. Food lovers can enjoy a wide range of flavours,

from fresh local seafood and smoky BBQ to sweet treats and festival favourites. Pair that with refreshing beverages from local and national producers, and you’ve got the perfect recipe for a memorable day out. DUST OFF THOSE DANCING BOOTS You don’t need to know your

left boot from your right, just be ready to give line dancing a go thanks to Salty Steppers Line Dancing Club! Between the live music sets, we’ll be getting the crowd up for a bit of line dancing, with the chance to learn a few moves, get in line and put those dancing boots to work. Whether you nail every step or end up facing completely the wrong direction, that’s all part of the fun. Cowboy boots optional, enthusiasm highly encouraged. Whitianga Oceans Festival: Saturday 19 September 2026 10.00 am - 5.00pm, info@oceansfestival.co.nz

Whitianga hosts 70th Birthday for NZ Sports Fishing Council

Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club will host the 70th birthday celebrations of the New Zealand Sports Fishing Council. It is their AGM and they have turned it into a weekend of celebrations. Thursday, 17 September to Saturday night 19 September. The weekend marks 70 years of representation, conservation, and sport fishing advocacy since the council's formation as the NZ Big Game Fishing Council in 1957. Mercury bay game Fishing Club is a foundation member and will be the hosts for the weekend. 77 delegates and their partners will

be enjoying Mercury Bay for a line-up of sight-seeing, conference sessions and a Saturday night red carpet turnout being the special prize giving celebration for the National Awards. This will be at the town hall. After 5.00pm, on Saturday, 19 September, change your Oceans Meats Country gear that you wore at Oceans Festival for Saturday night’s red carpet bonanza. Flippers might not do. Check out Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club website https://mbgfc. co.nz/

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The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026 | 5

Welcome Warehouse Stationery ADVERTORIAL

M 2

eet Ann Madden the Store Manager for the new Warehouse Stationery opened last Friday in Whitianga. Ann is no new comer to Whitianga or The Warehouse Group. She was instrumental in setting up The Warehouse red shed in Whitianga 14 years ago. “Now to have the opportunity to be part of setting this one, it’s amazing.” says Ann. There was no lack of expertise and leadership preparing for the store opening. The General Manager of branding for the Warehouse Stationery Group, Debby Watts, was there to greet media and encourage the local team. “It is a real privilege to look after the Warehouse Stationery brand,” says Debby. “We have a total of 68 stores in New Zealand. There are 26 which stand alone as Warehouse Stationery stores and 42 share premises with The Warehouse. This is the first store to open in 2026 – it’s a celebration.” I love product. My background is product, 16 years of it. I love Warehouse Stationery. We have an amazing team of people; a number of our store managers have come in their own time to help set up this new store. “It is our smallest square metreage store. We have put some new design features and choices – planning for it to be more reflective of the region the store will serve. We have still provided the range of goods – no compromise on that. The team have fitted everything in very well.

8 “Whether it is for personal customer shopping, for business or for schools, all the product categories are here in the store,” says Debby Ann Madden and her husband have returned from Wanganui for Ann to take up her role of Manager of Whitianga Warehouse Stationery. “We missed Whitianga and when I saw this offer, I could not wait to apply. We feel we have come home. This store provides so many services that the community now has on hand,” says Ann. “The Printing and Copying Centre is a great feature of this store – we can do AO plans while you wait; and it is fully equipped with heat press and Duraprint machinery for personal gifting – canvasses, mouse pads, mugs, key rings. Anything to do with photos can be done along with book binding and it’s a same day service.” It was easy to see how popular the creativity and education aspect of the store was – the choice of pens – writing, drawing, sketching – seemed unlimited; plus paint brushes and art supplies, notebooks, crafts and textured play supplies. For the Friday, Saturday and Sunday – as part of the store opening celebrations – the spinning wheel to win a goodie bag was there. Friday was simply festive with free gifts, goodies bags, that fantastic Loaded Kiwi coffee cart with free coffee and Coromandel CFM, broadcasting live and serving free sausages from their mobile BBQ. All of this was due to the generous marketing philosophy of The Warehouse Group and the fact that there is a new blue store in town – here to stay.

10 Just in time for the opening of Warehouse Stationery was the completion of the roundabout on Joan Gaskell Drive right at the entrance. Next door to Warehouse Stationery is Beyond Water and Chesters Plumbing all sharing the one large carpark. Opposite are The Warehouse red shed store and Woolworths. The roundabout makes an easy entrance for all shoppers. It has taken some time but is worth waiting for. All these stores are pleased the roundabout is complete.

Cover photo: Kurt Douglas Regional manager Warehouse Stationery with local staff member, Tyler Marsh..

1 – Avyana and Tania ready to spin the wheel with Fabian of CFM and Stacey of Marketing, Warehouse Stationery. 2 – Sharina Parsot, Warehouse Stationery staff prepares the goodie bags. 3 – Alif Nurrokhman, Print and Copy Centre staff. 4 – One delighted customer, Bess Kingi with her new photo printer, wilth Darrell Craig, Customer Services, who set up the entire machine ready to print for Bess when she got to her business office. 5 – Paul Salter and Linda Grant, CFM, serve Darren of Chesters Plumbing his sausage. 6 – Briar Brown 10 collects her goodies bag. 7 – Rikki-Ray Tanoa - time out to eat her sausage, and pleased with her goodie bag. 8 – Ann Madden and Debby Watts, General Manager of Warehouse Stationery branding. 9 – Kurt Douglas Regional Manager with a happy customer. 10 – The Loaded Kiwi with their aromatic Coffee La La –Joe Kelsall owner enjoying serving with Gabe (L) and Cheyenne ( R).

6 | The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026

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FRAGRANCES FOR DAD Father’s Day - Sunday 6th September

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The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026 | 7

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Coromandel manager is awarded National Sales Manager of the Year

ADVERTORIAL

BY PAULINE STEWART

ecently, one of our own locals was awarded the Bayleys National Sales Manager of the Year. There are over 150 Bayleys sales managers across New Zealand. With 1,200 people from all over New Zealand present at the awards ceremony, it is quite something for a local to receive this honour. Had one of his staff not told The Informer of the news, we may never have known. Shaun Paterson, Director and joint owner of Bayleys Coromandel Peninsula, was the recipient. The award is open to any owner or manager across Bayleys’ national leadership group throughout the country. The decision is based on submissions from people across the business and is made by the Bayleys Realty Group Board. The award recognises a person who has added significant value to their office and their people through leadership, team culture and business growth. Before Shaun was announced as National Sales Manager of the Year, event MC Jeremy Corbett said:

Lee and Tara Carter, Laura and Shaun.

Shaun Paterson is presented with his national award. Mike Bayley, Chairman of Bayley’s Corporation Mark Macky CEO, Shaun Paterson, General Manager of Bayleys Coromandel Peninsula, Chris Gwin – National Director of Franchises.

“This recipient’s leadership has driven outstanding business performance, developed high-performing teams and delivered exceptional results for their franchise. Our recipient has transformed what was already a strong performance into a truly dominant one, growing market share over a staggering fifty percent. A strong culture champion, Shaun has built a team who embraces collaboration, accountability and excellence.” I have personally watched Shaun’s journey as he has grown

the business, and thought back to his dad, who was here in Whitianga when the Bayleys office was first established in Albert Street over 25 years ago. Shaun went on to make property his vocation. His dad’s example, his university education, 20 years of corporate real estate leadership in London and Auckland, his colleagues, and the local community here in Whitianga, where he lives with his wife Laura and their children Amelie and Sienna, have all contributed to this achievement. Congratulations, Shaun.

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Email: office@theinformer.co.nz with the subject ‘Tickets to Joe Cocker’ 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 Friday 28 August. Winner will be contacted by phone or email. The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026 | 9

Is this a role for a Tairua person? BY PAM FERLA

op in to Tairua Information Centre and you are likely to hear the cheerful Pommie voice of the manager, Eve Roper. After six years on the job, Eve has decided to step down and is looking for someone else to train for her role. When she started the job she did not anticipate the challenge of Covid restrictions, which led her to creating a temporary office at her Tairua home. “I was just finding my feet at the centre and I popped into 4 Square and it was packed with everyone stocking up with things like toilet rolls. I’d been so busy and not noticed that we were going into lockdown. I thought to myself “Well, I’ve just got a job in a tourist town and now there won’t be any tourists. So – do I still have a job? “Then I took my work laptop home, transferred office phone calls, organised courier parcels to

be dropped off at my place, and worked from home. I remember that there was a lots of wine and cheese dropped off for residents who were stuck in their homes.” Fortunately Covid restrictions eased in May and Eve returned to work at the centre. Other challenges have included extreme weather events and road closures. “Tairua’s had two stints of isolation over the past six years and during those times we got lots of phone calls from people worried about family remembers living in Tairua.” Tairua’s information centre was set up 40 years ago. It has moved a number of times over the years, including both sides of the main street and twice being based in a caravan. “The current site, within the district council’s library complex, is earmarked for library expansion. So we’re now focused on getting

“It can be very gratifying knowing you have helped someone,” says manager of Tairua Information and Services Centre, Eve Roper.

a relocatable building on the Pepe Reserve beside the public toilets.” During Eve’s time at the centre she has organised Music on the Pepe, the Tairua Calendar and a reprint of Father Bennett’s book of Tairua history. She also instigated clearer signage for the cen-

tre and Ocean Beach. The Pepe Bridge rebuild prompted her to organise tea towels commemorating the one-lane bridge. Eve has helped thousands of people and says it can be very gratifying knowing that you’ve helped someone. “There was the woman who phoned the centre and asked our volunteer where her husband had stayed the last weekend. It felt like she was accusing the volunteer of something! But it turned out the woman wanted to surprise her husband by booking it for them to stay because she knew he liked the place. “Sometimes it feels like we should have a crystal ball as our logo,” laughs Eve. “But thank goodness we have Google to help us.” Eve is a well-known face on stage at Tairua Troubadours shows, with a penchant for comedy and a lovely voice. She enjoys organising town markets and will continue with this as well as

being on the information centre’s committee. Eve plans to work on self-sufficiency in her garden and also spend time sewing and painting. “My name is Eve, so I’m a creator,” she adds, with the smile that has welcomed many visitors to the information centre. Eve says the new manager needs to be organised, a multitasker, resourceful, creative and customer focused. Computer and administration skills are also required. Eve reckons it helps to be happy and calm in all situations. “The job is like a diamond – it has many facets and I know the new manager will find our volunteers very welcoming will help her/him settle in.” For more information on the manager’s role at Tairua Information and Community Services Society, an information pack is available from the centre or phone 078647575.

Digital Decoder By Agent EJ

Using AI could put you at risk of plagiarism

Almost everyone I know who uses email for work these days, has either made use of ChatGPT or other LLMs as a tool to help with their writing, or they’ve at least experimented before rejecting it. It has allowed people who may not necessarily have the educational background or literary flair, to express themselves professionally, sounding diplomatic in tricky situations, and speaking with a confidence they might not have had before. Some authors simply use it to check grammar, but for many regular people, the heavy lifting is now done by the algorithm. AI writing is now so mainstream that jurisdictions can’t move fast enough to limit its use in schools and other fields. It's shown up in politics too, with AI-generated graphics and memes fuelling social media arguments that gen-

uinely shape public debate, and crucially, elections. That's part of why the EU's AI transparency rules which kicked

in from August 2026, requires companies to clearly label AI-generated content, whether that's a chatbot reply, an image, or a block

Be upfront: a quick note like "drafted with AI assistance, edited by me" does you far more good than staying quiet. Save all your prompts and don't go stripping watermarks or metadata off anything, it's tempting, but that's exactly what turns a grey area into a real headache. These are tools that are now part of our modern (and future) lives. Tech-companies are driven to pass off their AI models as real humans, as much as possible. The line where the uncanny valley ends is getting more and more blurry. In a society that is increasingly adopting the widespread use of bio-computers, and very convincing humanoid robots, for our own safety and protection, we need to be able to tell the difference, between a human touch, and a computer’s hallucination.

Onehunga Weed (Prickle Weed) Control throughout the district

Decor Gifts & Little Darlings

End of Season Babywear Sale

September: 1st-3rd: Pauanui Reserves 4th-5th: Tairua Reserves 8th: Coromandel 9th: Whangapoua 10th: Kuaotunu, Opito 11th-12th: Matarangi 14th-16th: Whangamata 17th: Onemana/Opoutere 21st-23rd: Thames Coast/Thames

S A L E 11A Coghill St, Whitianga (07) 280 0536 www.chique.nz

of text. Anthropic has started coming up with a way to watermark these. The watermarking involves embedding identifiers directly into the file, so AI-generated content can be told apart. Almost everyone agrees the goal is to have transparency and protection of original works. An unacknowledged watermark could easily turn into an accusation of plagiarism, in a job application, a university assignment, or a report with your name on it. These announcements are timely, given the recent tragic passing of Jason Arday, who was accused of plagiarism and consequently harassed to the extent that he took his own life. Given a recent study found only 38% of AI image tools currently watermark adequately, the systems meant to protect you aren't fully reliable yet either.

OPENING HOURS Tuesday - Friday 10am - 4pm Saturday 10am - 2pm

10 | The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026

24th-25th: Whitianga 28th-31st: Cooks Beach, Hahei, Hot Water Beach & Coroglen October: 1st -2nd: Cooks Beach, Hahei, Hot Water Beach & Coroglen 5th-9th: Cemetries at Ferry Landing, Coromandel and Colville + 2nd spraying @ Cooks Central & Pauanui Beach Front Reserves.

er d h t a We

ent d n epe

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Whitianga Line Dancing Club Celebrates

MB Club winner

Ron is congratulated by Kelvyn Conaghan at Mercury Bay Club on his Members Draw win of $2,000 Above: Mercury Bay Line Dancing Club Members with Wendy Whitticker, Glynis Quin and Margaret Tucker in the front row. Below: Glynis Quin and Margaret Tucker.

BY MICHELLE FARMER

n 13th August the club held their Mid-Year Social in the Whitianga Town Hall. Members from all-ability classes attended including Absolute Beginners, Beginners, Improvers and Seniors. The committee, led by Wendy Whittaker, excelled themselves with a black and white theme including colour- coordinated balloons, photos, cake and table attire. An extraordinary presentation was made to the delightful Glynis Quinn – it being her last day teaching the Absolute Beginners and Beginners classes. Glynis has been tirelessly teaching line

dancing in the Mercury Bay for 8 years, alongside her very good friend and fellow teacher, Margaret Tucker. However, Glynis is not fully retiring from dancing as she will continue to support the two more advanced groups till the end of the year. Words from Margaret's speech: ‘Glynis and I worked well together from the very start. We formed a bond and knew we had the same vision. We have a lovely friendship, and I am eternally grateful to Glynis’. Whitianga Line Dancing Club is looking for more teachers. Margaret is at pains to explain that past teaching experience is not required as help and support will

It was a must go Members Draw last Friday night 21 August at Mercury Bay Club. After five names were called of absentee members, the sixth

person was present. The lucky winner was Ron Pedersen. He went home with the prize money of $2,000.

BUFFALO BEACH CLUB 18 The Esplanade, Whitianga

BIG BROTHERS BIG SISTERS CHARITY NIGHT – TAPAS MENU be forthcoming. If you are passionate about line dancing and think you could be of support, please contact Margaret on 027 463 8850.

This Wednesday 26 August $80/person All proceeds go to this local charity – the whole lot

WHITIANGA

PUBLIC MEETING SATURDAY 29 AUGUST Come along to hear from Hon Alfred Ngaro and Vincent Andersen New Zealand First candidates and engage in a community Q+A.

6:30pm

Crossroads Church 36 Cook Drive Whitianga

Authorised by H Howard, www.nzfirst.nz

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The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026 | 11

Welcome to Playcentre BY VERNA CARR

laycentre Aotearoa New Zealand is having an open week, on the 17-21 August., Chatting with Emma Curtis, president of The Whitianga Playcentre was a fun. As we were sitting on the couch a whole range of activities were taking place around us; Every corner was an invitation to play – paints, dinosaurs, books, interactive activities all designed for curious minds to grow and explore. Outside, there was plenty to climb, ride, chase, squish, squeeze, and build. Each child was free to choose their own adventure – and the best part was watching the grown-ups get pulled into it too, mums and dads down on the floor building blocks and chasing dinosaurs of their own. This is clearly a place where happy memories get made. Playcentre isn't a drop-off centre. Unlike daycare, parents stay with their children the whole time – and according to Emma, that's exactly the point. It means parents get a front-row seat to every milestone. Parenting, she pointed out, is a big job, and a lonely one if you're doing it solo. The real value of Playcentre is the community that grows around it: connections with other local families, friendships between the kids (and the adults) that can last for years, and a genuine sense of belonging.

Emma, Alponse (centre) and Connor.

Playcentre welcomes everyone from wide-eyed babies just discovering the world to confident five and six-year-olds ready to run the show. There's a rich variety of quality play and learning experiences, and with so many watchful parents around, it's a safe environment where kids are free to discover their own strengths and interests. There's also support for the grown-ups — including free education programmes, such as credits toward the NZ Certificate in Early Childhood Education and Care.

Best of all, it costs nothing to bring your child along. Donations are always welcome, of course, and Whitianga Playcentre would like to give a shout-out to St Andrew's Church and Whitianga Social Services for their generous donations of clothing and pyjamas. The centre is also part of Z service station's Good in the Hood programme, where fuel customers can donate a token to their favourite local cause. And naturally, there's the odd bake sale and fundraiser thrown in for good measure.

COME ALONG If you're a parent with a young child and would like to check out Playcentre, don't be shy — come along to the open days. Whitianga Playcentre is open 9am–12:30pm on Tuesdays and Fridays, or simply pop in, chat to Emma or the other mums and dads, ask questions, and get a feel for the centre. Bring old clothes, because children get messy — and let them, because this is hands-on adventure, full of smiling, giggling, happy children. Come play. Come chat. Come

belong. • Whitianga Playcentre – 1F White Street, Whitianga 3510 · whitianga@playcentre.org.nz · 027 880 3947 • Coromandel Playcentre – 80 Woollams Avenue, Coromandel 3506 · 027 700 1803 • Thames Parawai Playcentre – 331 Parawai Road, Thames 3500 · 027 880 3945 • Whangamatā Playcentre – 100A Achilles Avenue, Whangamatā 3620 · 07 865 7091 • Turua Playcentre – 12 Raratuna Street, Turua 3574

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Cindy Alger guest artist at Gallery 6

Take a Walk on The Wild Side

From Shakespeare cliff looking towards Lonely Bay and Cooks Beach. Photo Debbie Morgan

BY VERNA CARR

Cindy Alger outside Gallery 6.

indy Alger brings her distinctive style as “Guest Artist” at Gallery 6 for the month of September. Many will be familiar with Cindy’s artworks – painting light hearted and quirky scenes conducive to positive, fruitful outcomes or good feng shui! She is a long-time resident and very much part of the art community of Coromandel. Cindy’s parents, her mother Latvian, was the cook at the local Hospital, while her father a fisherman and local undertaker. This meant she grew up with first hand

experience of the fragility and sometimes unexpected shortness of life. So early on, Cindy found a way to deal with this knowledge – not to take anything too seriously and to spend as much time as possible doing what you love. Cindy gained a Bachelor of Fine Arts at Elam in Auckland in 1990, with a major in sculpture and honours in painting. Visit the gallery and enjoy her works. Gallery hours are 10.00am – 2.00pm Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday, or contact 027 777 1572 after hours.

Mike’s Minutes

‘Worth Watching Online’

JUST KEY IN THE TITLE TO FIND THE VIDEO IN YOUTUBE (AND IT’S BEST ON A FLAT SCREEN TV) 1. This NEW $5B Mega Airport Will Completely Redefine Sydney! – The new Nancy Bird Walton Western Sydney International Airport that not everybody is happy about. 2.CHINESE FUTURISTIC ENGINEERING. The most amazing wonders. – This documentary showcases extraordinary infrastructure challenges overcome through creative solutions.

3. The Hidden Worlds of the South Pacific Islands | BBC Earth – A journey to explore the isolation of the South Pacific Ocean’s Islands. Enjoy watching, Mike

AEROVIEW GARDEN CENTRE

New season fruit trees

When it's a beautiful day for a walk and a bit of something different and if you are in Whitianga ;catch the passenger ferry from the Whitianga side. This very short ferry ride runs continuously and costs $5 one way or $8 return. A few minutes later, you'll step off at Ferry Landing

FERRY LANDING From the car park, the path forks. Head right and you'll climb to the remains of a pā site, once the fortified home of Ngāti Hei. The Pā was built with defensive terraces, stone walls, and vantage points for surveillance and protection, supporting a population that relied on the Bay's resources. Today you can walk across the grassed terraces where the Pā once stood, with sweeping views over Whitianga, the marina, and Buffalo Beach. Thew other option is. To take the Maramatotara Track, a roughly 40-minute walk through native bush to a lookout with spectacular views over Mercury Bay. Approached from this side, the track is clay and there are tree roots – steep, earthy, and boggy oand can be treacherous after rain. Approached instead from the Purangi Road side, the track is metalled, well maintained, and fitted with stairs and railings, making for a much easier walk. Seating and rest points along the route let you pause to admire the view, catch your breath, and listen to the birds. THE CEMETERY Rather than turning right at the car park, follow the road for about 50 metres and you'll come across the cemetery – a window into the history of the Whitianga community. It holds more than 1,162 recorded memorials spanning 1872

to 1955, including a dedicated RSA (Returned Services' Association) section set aside for servicemen and women.

FRONT BEACH Continue along the road to Front Beach, a postcard-perfect, sheltered stretch of white sand, with Maungatawhiri rising across the bay and Shakespeare Cliff standing sentinel nearby. At low tide, you can walk along the beach to Flaxmill Bay, or take the short stroll down Purangi Road instead.

SHAKESPEARE CLIFF Above Mercury Bay, Shakespeare Cliff -named for its uncanny resemblance to the Bard's profile – is now an 88-acre reserve of native bush, with a lovely grassed area shaded by mature pōhutukawa trees. A road and various tracks wind up to a lookout point with spectacular vistas, making the climb worthwhile, and information panels name the islands scattered across Mercury Bay. Still have energy? Push on to Lonely Bay and/or Cooks Beach, where Captain Cook anchored the Endeavour in November 1769, observed the transit of Mercury, and raised the British flag six days later. Through it all runs an older story. Whitianga takes its name from Te Whitianga-o-Kupe – "Kupe's crossing place" – honouring the Polynesian explorer said to have journeyed here from Hawaiki centuries before the great canoe migrations. The Bay itself is Te Whanganui-o-Hei, named for the ancestor of Ngāti Hei, the tangata whenua of this land. Take a walk on the wild side – pā terraces, historic beaches, native bush, and centuries of story. Talk a walk and enjoy a day of fun and adventure, and it's all just a very short ferry ride away.

28 Albert Street, Whitianga Phone 07 866 4532 Fax 07 866 4538

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The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026 | 13

ALL-NEW SUBARU OUTBACK

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14 | The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026

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Exclusivity without a bargain: How Political Leaders gave away our leverage for no return (consideration) This Opinion Piece is the first in a series outlining consequences (pros n cons) of TCDC’s Head Start decision. BY FLEMMING RASMUSSEN

before TCDC has decided any “red flags” (if our political leaders indeed have any)! Akin to a true Tui advertisement, the three councils intend to progress genuine community engagement and due diligence. Yeah Right! The published proposal confirms how much remained open. It says its financial analysis does not constitute an opening balance sheet or establish a quantified net saving. Governance, representation, rating, debt, asset arrangements, service levels, transition costs and regional functions are deferred to detailed design.

his is not an argument against reform. It is an argument against surrendering leverage before the “price”, protections and exit rights are known. In a 7-4 split vote led by Mayor Revell and Deputy Mayor Grant, four Thames-based Councillors, and Cr Freer (Whangamata), TCDC decided to enter the Government’s Head Start amalgamation process. We did not have to do that. The Government’s own policy calls Head Start voluntary and says councils that do not opt-in will face no mandatory change until after the 2028 local elections. Remaining a territorial authority is lawful, not defiant. It preserves TCDC’s ability to compare stand-alone, Eastern Waikato and Northern Bay of Plenty options. Instead, TCDC gave everything away before it got anything.

1. MEMORANDUM OF UNDERSTANDING (MOU) The Hauraki, Matamata-Piako and Coromandel District Councils’ MoU is unusually blunt. Non-binding until all three councils’ adoption; once adopted, it became binding. Once operative, cl. 6.1 bars each council from entering formal amalgamation negotiations with another council. Clause 7.3 provides that the MoU can only be replaced or terminated by written agreement of all parties or councils. Clauses 5.4 and 5.5 preserve statutory duties and deny predetermination, but neither supplies a unilateral termination right. That is not harmless collaboration. It is exclusivity plus a unanimous-release mechanism. You may ask, what binding protection did TCDC receive in exchange? Very little is the answer. The executed MoU is five pages. Its seven principles are broad. Clause 4.2 expressly says they are not final arrangements for representation, rating, debt allocation or service delivery. It contains no attached Foundational or Guiding Principles; it limits itself to 4-6 local boards (TCDC alone has 5 today). The MoU has no operative terms fixing powers, rates transition, legacy-debt allocation, asset-condition treatment, service levels, capital priorities or Wai Water (LWDW) accession. A promise to preserve the sentence “strong local voice” does not specify how many representatives TCDC will have on the Governing Body, decisions they con-

Flemming Rasmussen.

trol, how budgets are calculated, or what remedy follows if the eventual legislation delivers less. The MoU fixes the negotiating relationship while leaving the economic and democratic bargain unfixed! Clause 9.1 calls the MoU the entire understanding and supersedes prior discussions and understandings. Whatever more detailed Schedule 1 negotiating paper existed, it was not incorporated into the executed instrument filed with the proposal. The legal point must be stated accurately. In strict contract law, mutual promises may supply consideration. The failure is not solved by chanting “no consideration”. It is commercial: TCDC accepted a concrete restraint while obtaining no equivalent, enforceable quid pro quo on the matters that determine whether TCDC ratepayers win or lose. Aspirations are not conditions precedent. “Best endeavours” are not an audited opening balance sheet. Good faith is not a rating cap. Nor does unanimity rescue the drafting. Clause 4.3 says the principles may be changed only by written agreement of all parties and councils. That protects the words, not the outcomes. 2. WHAT’S NEXT? The mayors’ covering letter to Ministers Watts and Bishop states that, if due diligence disclosed red flags, councils “… may seek to exit”. Seek is the operative word. A right to ask the other parties for release is not a contractual right to leave. The political sales pitch describes an off-ramp; the legal instrument supplied is a gate controlled by all three councils. This

Flemming H Rasmussen LLB, MBA, B.Com.

Practical advice for doing business in the Coromandel. • COMPANY AND COMMERCIAL ADVICE • RESTRUCTURING AND INSOLVENCY

• PROPERTY LEASES, PROPERTY AND BUSINESS PURCHASES AND SALES • MEDIATION (ADR)

3. POLITICAL ACCOUNTABILITY Political responsibility cannot be outsourced to consultants or compressed timetables. Mayor Revell and Deputy Mayor Grant led TCDC’s reform working group. I was a member of the working group; I am a commercial contract lawyer. I know a good agreement when I see one. I voted against the adaptation. Mayor Revell signed the MoU. In my opinion, accepting binding exclusivity before reciprocal agreement terms are settled is politically and commercially naive. That criticism is directed at the decision and its text, not at motive. The Local Government Act requires open, transparent and democratically accountable conduct, prudent stewardship, and a decision process that identifies reasonably practicable options and considers their advantages and disadvantages. They

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4. A STAND-ALONE TCDC COMPARATOR IS ESSENTIAL, NOT OPTIONAL Without a ten-year stand-alone model by property type, service level and downside scenario, no one can objectively say amalgamation creates value. Scale may cut overhead; it may also centralise priorities and import transition costs. Both sides need pricing before commitment. The responsible position is “not yet”: remain a territorial authority; keep negotiations non-exclusive; require an audited asset, debt and liability baseline; obtain property-level rating and service modelling; settle water and local-board terms; and insist on a unilateral withdrawal right before any irreversible step. Anything less is not due diligence; it is governance on a wing and a prayer. TCDC’s political leadership calls the proposal “starting from strength”. A party that must obtain its counterparties’ consent merely to reopen competing negotiations is not negotiating from strength. It is negotiating from inside the bargain it should have completed first! What do you think? This is my private opinion. It is NOT written in my capacity as an elected Mercury Bay Ward District Councilor. Flemming is a laywer and businessman living in Mercury Bay.

EST. VOLUNTEER RESPONSE TEAM ◆ NORTHERN COROMANDEL PENINSULA LAND SEARCH & RESCUE NEW ZEALAND

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Operational and non-operational positions are available — whether you want hands-on

fieldwork or a role supporting the team behind the scenes, there's a place for you at KSAR.

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demand decision-grade evidence before material leverage is surrendered.

We’d particularly love to hear from former members – if you’ve served with KSAR before, please get back in touch. Your experience is welcome back any time.

Shannon Gregory

Shannon.Gregory@landsar.org.nz

Ray van Beynen nzpbkk@gmail.com

An open day is planned in the near future for all interested persons — watch this space.

KUAOTUNU SEARCH AND RESCUE ◆ READY FOR OUTDOOR EMERGENCIES 24/7

The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026 | 15

WIN! Games & Puzzles Issue 1224

Crossword Puzzle © Lovatts Puzzles 5399

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Last weeks winner CONGRATULATIONS Carol Holmes

Issue 1224 – Grid 1191

Proudly sponsored by Win a $5.60 Wednesday Lotto ticket. 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 12:00pm on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from the New World checkout manager directly.

ACROSS 1. Heartwarming (8) 5. Weaving frame (4) 7. Very (4) 8. Given excess salary (8) 9. Dominions (6) 12. Tribal leader (7) 15. Sloped letters (7) 19. Tree-dwarfing art (6) 21. Absconders (8) 22. Cajole (4) 23. Cul-de-sac, ... end (4) 24. Impaired hearing of (8)

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Win a coffee and a treat from Mat’s Cafe in Whitianga (T’s & C’s apply). 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 claim their prize from Mat’s Cafe directly with ID with their published name.

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What’s On OP SHOPS

Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop – Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every MonSat 10am-2pm. Mercury Bay Resource Recovery Centre ReUse Store 239 South Highway, Whitianga Open Tues-Sat 9:30am-3:30pm 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. NEW HOURS - 9.30am-1pm Tue-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-Sun 9am-5pm.

MONTHLY

AA Driver Licensing – NEW LOCATION. Friday 11 and Monday 28 September, Whitianga Community Service Trust Centre, 2 Cook Drive, Whitianga. American Muscle Street and Custom Club Whitianga – Club meetings first Sunday of the month, 11am at Buffalo Beach Reserve for cars and coffee. Phone Reg and Julie Smith on 027 493 5822. Cooks Beach Garden Circle –Last Thurs of the month 11.15am-2.30pm. New members welcome. Ph Anne on 021 0247 7460 for more information. Craft Group – Meets first Saturday 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. Hauraki U3A (University of the Third Age) has interesting speakers every 3rd Tuesday of the month. All are welcome. Paeroa Baptist Church, 2 Wood St, Paeroa. $10 at door. To book email event_registration@u3ahauraki.nz Hei Mara Garden Club Hahei - We meet on the first Monday of each month at members’ homes, 11am - 2.30pm. New members from Hahei and surrounding areas are welcome. Phone Liz on 0210649232 for more information. 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 loader, rimfire, centre fire, military, pistol. Email mbsfsecretary@gmail.com Ohuka Garden Club meets 2nd Wednesday of the month. New members welcome. Contact Beverley Sheppard Ph 02109028855 or emailbeverley@annabells.co.nz Peninsula Penultimates (ex Probus Club) Fourth Monday of every month, 10am at the Mercury Bay Bowling Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. Phone Jo on 021 264 3753. Tairua Market takes place on the 1st Saturday of the month all year at Tairua Bowling Club, 9am till 1pm Starting 1st Sunday in October until June 2027 (closed for winter). Food, fruit and veges, crafts, clothing, home decor, plants, furniture, books and much more.

FORTNIGHTLY

Greeting Card Making – The second and fourth Fridays of the month, 10am-12pm at St Peter 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, 10am-12pm at St Peter the Fisherman, 7 Dundas St. Ph Gillian Reid on 021 781081 for further details, or just turn up. Mercury Bay Creative Fibre – Spin, knit, weave, crochet. First and third Wednesday every month, 10am-1pm, supper room of Town Hall. Phone Sue 021 274 7899. Email suzyed@outlook.com Mercury Bay Quilters – 10am-4pm on the

www.theinformer.co.nz

first and third Mondays and second and fourth Saturdays of each month. Contact Margaret on 021 140 4016. Whitianga Tramping Group – Every second Sunday at 8.30am. Phone Wally 021 907 782 or Lesley 021 157 9979 for more information.

WEEKLY OR MORE

Alcoholics Anonymous – The Whitianga Big Book Group meets every Thursday at 6.30pm at St Peter the Fisherman Church, Dundas Street. Phone 0800 AA WORKS (0800 229 6757) for more information. Al-Anon Serenity Group – For those affected by someone else’s drinking. Every Wednesday at 1.30pm. Phone Pauline on 021 086 10955 for more info. Badminton – Whitianga Badminton Club – Thurs 5-7pm, MBAS school gym. Four courts. Now open to new members wanting to play competitive Badminton. Coaching provided for those wanting to improve their skills. Phone Steve for more details 027 211 3568. 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 – Mondays 6.30-9.30pm, MB Bowling Club. Players of all levels. Cost $2. Contact Brett Soanes 0272117195 or brettsoanes16@hotmail.com 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 respect shown. No charge. Convener Peter H. Wood. Cooks Beach Care Group – Meet new friends, learn about coastal conservation and make a difference. Hands-on weeding and planting, Thursday mornings. Register at:www.cooksbeachcaregroup.org.nz; www.facebook.com/ CooksBeachCareGroup Cooks Beach Indoor Bowling ClubWednesday at 1.45pm. Come and join us at the Community Centre (Hall). New members are most welcome, please contact Coral ph. 0212303944. Cooks Beach Pickleball – Community Tennis Courts, 9am Saturday morning. Weather permitting. Nets and bats provided. $5 each, first time free. Contact Kevin 021 396 062. Cooks Beach Table Tennis – Every Thursday night 6.00-8.00pm, $5pp each night. Cooks Beach Community Centre. All welcome. Contact Stu 0274 572 243 or Kevin 021 396 062. Coromandel ‘Growers & Artisans Market’ – Every Saturday from 9am - 1pm at The Anglican Church Hall, Coromandel Town. Dog walking group – Every Thurs, 2pm, Lovers Rock, Robinson Road. All breeds and sizes welcome to a very sociable group. Ph Jenny on 021 186 5797. 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. Hahei Tennis & Pickleball Club - Thursday & Sunday Contact Tim 0278432683 or refer their facebook page. 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 – Every Wednesday 9-11am, at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. Social badminton. Casual players and visitors are welcome. Players of all levels, ages 16+. Phone Carol 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 – Every Wednesday at 1.00pm and every Thursday at 7.00pm at the MB Bowling and Sports Club, Cook Drive, Whitianga. For more information contact Gavin 021 146 9203. Mercury Bay Community Choir – All welcome to this friendly non auditioned choir. Mondays 6pm to 8pm Mercury Bay Area School Music

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. Room. Start date 10th August. Phone Kate 027 2709058 for more information. Mercury Bay Environmental Trust – Every Tues and Fri from 9-11am, location advised prior. For more information, phone 022 104 1701 please email mbenvironmentaltrust@ gmail.com or go to www.mbet.co.nz. Mercury Bay Indoor Bowling Club. Every Thursday evening, Whitianga Town Hall 6.45pm. New members, beginners and visitors very welcome. Phone/txt Cheryl 027 452 7887 or Sandie 021 825 666 for more information. Mercury Bay Pickleball Club - At the Mercury Bay Area School Gymnasium, Tuesdays Members Only 5.30-7.30pm; Saturdays Social & New Players 9-11am; Sundays All Players 4-6pm. Members/ Guests/Visitors $5, a complimentary session is available to new players wanting to trial pickleball. Current membership only $10 to 30/09/2026 www.mercurybaypickleball.co.nzContact Tony 021426150. Moewai Sportspark sessions are weather dependant & advised on our facebook page Mercury Bay Pickleball. Matarangi Pickleball Club (Matai Pl Courts) Thurs 3-5pm (Winter) 5-7pm (Summer) Saturday 9-11am Contact Grant 0223836351. Mercury Bay Squash Club – Lyon Park, Albert Street - New members/enquires please email mercbaysquash@gmail.com Mercury Bay Table Tennis – Every Tues, 9-11.30am at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. Ph Anne on 07 869 5162 or 027 565 5575 for more info. Mercury Bay Tennis Club – Social tennis at Lyon Park on Thursdays at 5.30pm. All welcome. Ph Jason 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 6-7.30pm. Ph Tony 027 333 5146. 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. Gold coin donation. Ph Tony 027 333 5146 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. Tairua Markets – Held at the Tairua Bowling Club, starting first Sunday in October 2026 until June 2027. Closed winter. Whenuakite Area Playgroup – 9.30am12.30pm 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 10am3pm, 23 School Road. Visitors and new members welcome. Phone Margaret on 027 635 1615 for more information. Whitianga Menz Shed – 18 Abrahamson Drive, Open Tues/Thurs, 9am-12 noon. Phone Glenn 0274-952-015. All welcome. Whitianga Playcentre – Every Tues/Fri 9am12 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 and afternoon tea, 55+ age group. Phone Lionel 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. Whitianga Toy Library - Tummy Time sessions for parents/caregivers and babies under 12m. Every Wednesday 9:30am at the toy library Shop 4, Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Members and non-members welcome. Contact librarian@ whititoylibrary.co.nz for more information 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 - Whitianga - beginners, retirees, inflexibles welcome. Mon 2.30pm, Tues 5.15pm, Thurs 4.20pm, Fri 8.45am, Sat 8.15am. Gentle Simple. $25 for a 90 minute session. Text 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 – Held in the Whitianga Town Hall. Tuesdays beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, Seniors 12.45-2.30pm; Thursdays Seniors 10.15-11.15am, Absolute Beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, Improvers 12.451.45pm. Night class held at Whitianga Town Hall for Absolute Beginners 5.25-6.25pm. Contact Margaret 027 463 8850, Glynis 021 1099 155, Kathleen 022 154 1702. 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. Absolute Beginners Wed 2.00-3.00pm ($5); Beginner/Improver classes Monday 10.30-11.45am, Intermediate classes Wed, 12-1.30pm. $7 per session. 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.m at the Whitianga Town Hall in Monk St.

GROUP INFO

Grey Power Mercury Bay – International Day of the Older Person, 1st October. All welcome and morning tea provided at The Mercury Bay Club. Doors open 10am. Further info please phone Grey Power Mercury Bay 07 866 5516 or email:greypower.mercurybay@gmail.com. Come and join us for our next get together. Mercury Bay Athletics – For info contact mercurybayathletics@gmail.com Mercury Bay Lions Club – New members are welcome. Email mercurybaylions@gmail.com. Phone Cecily 027 253 3088 or Chrissy 021 177 4226. SeniorNet Whitianga, Inc. – Learn, update your skills using smart phones, etc. in a friendly setting. Call Carol Wood on 021 022 62504 or email Carol on 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 Jon Maud 027 366 4606. Whitianga Gun Club – For information, phone Mike Deverell 0274 959 477 or Neville Crawford 021 276 2169. Whitianga Community Patrol – Monitors the township and neighbourhood. If interested in volunteering, ph Gary 027 391 3043. Whitianga Lions Club – We welcome new members. Dinners first Thursday of every month, 6.00pm at The Mercury Bay Club. Contact John 0272 480 779. Email whitianga@lionsclub. org.nz

COURTESY VEHICLE DRIVERS

The Mercury Bay Club is looking for a new volunteer to drive our courtesy vehicle on Tuesday & Friday evenings. This is a volunteer role, but each night the driver is given a $40 food & beverage voucher to reimburse reasonable expenses considering the driver can’t go home for dinner etc. This is a valuable service for our members. If you have a full, valid drivers licence, and would like to support the Club in this way, please leave your contact details with the staff. The courtesy vehicle drivers are entered into a roster system and you might typically be rostered on once every 4 weeks or so.

The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026 | 17

John - Tony - Dan

It was Dan’s idea

John - Tony - Dan

automotive industry and running his own business. Dan is a family man and enjoys the lifestyle of Whitianga and Mercury Bay. Call in or give Dan Mizen a call.

BJOLI BUILDERS Contact John 0276 425 654

CAR DETAILING Steve OConnell

Get your motorhomes & caravans cleaned 027 446 4422 oconnellfam4@yahoo.com

Tony Jump (akaradiators Jumpy) 027 251 1410 & Flooring Dan Mizen & cambelts diagnostic scanning FREE WOF

- Sales Chemicals • Pumps Processing beef, ironworks2112@gmail.com 07 866 9531 or 020 417 27855 Property Services Filters•Covers•Heaters with full service sheep, pigs whitiautoworx@outlook.com Whitianga based October - Service Repairs customer pick up/ and drop off available (whitianga only) & all game until end Servicing Coromandel area

NIT SKIPS CLEA 07 866 3721 021 022 09421 MIKE & LEANNE

To North side of Tairua Hill

P: 07 866 2457 E: whitiangatrade@hammerhardware.co.nz

Professional Car and Marine detailing.

C J

SERVING THE WHOLE PENINSULA - 2011

---------3m3 6m3 9m3---------

From Whangapoua

225 South Highway, Whitianga

KING

07 211 9531

mob: 020 417 27855

Mechanical engineer and fitter Fit and fabricate whatever is needed wofAll& service Peninsula general Coastline Pool and Spa Ltd engineering eehybrid servicing brake & suspension repairsay Home Kills REPAIRS, VEHICLE MAINTENANCE & DIAGNOSTICS

Phone Nick Burcombe 866 3970 or 021 2125 260 21 Rangihau Road, Coroglen

• Sleepers • Pergola Timber • Landscape Timber • Sheds • Fencing Rails • Custom Trellis • Decking • Smart Screens • Paving • Cement • Water Tanks • Nails, Bolts, Screws

VALET

whitiautoworx@outlook.com

COROMANDEL IRON WORKS

WE’RE YOUR LOCAL FOR:

Safe as 0274 571 436 Houses 0800 007 366

6/43 moewai road whitianga COROMANDEL IRON WORKS whitianga

Independant Top quality sausages, P - (07)road 211 9445 6/43 moewai whitianga 07 211 9531 • Supply and lay bacon, ham & salami whitiautoworx@outlook.com mob: 020 417 27855 Nathan - 021 653 907 • Vinyl, carpet, diamond Bookings essential Mechanical engineergrinding and fifloor tter levelling

OPENING HOURS

Maree(Director) WPR Safe as Houses swprenos@xtra.co.nz

loan car also available, booking essential

loan car also available, booking essential - Maintenance

WHITIANGA TRADE

• Builders • Plastering • Painting • Section Maintenance • Wallpapering • Fences • Decks

Mobile gantry for hybrid servicing brake & suspension repairs easy boat VEHICLE REPAIRS, MAINTENANCE & DIAGNOSTICS removal Dan &Mizen radiators cambelts diagnostic scanning FREE WOF John Bethell 07 866 9531 or 020 417 27855 with full service whitiautoworx@outlook.com until end October customer pick up and drop off available (whitianga only)

wof & service

specials

Dan Mizen.

HAMMER HARDWARE

Whitianga Property Renovators

ANYTHING FIBREGLASS FIXED RIGHT

free wof with a full service or $50.00 wof check or

whitianga

Call Jon 021 0254 3570 or email jonmacca4@gmail.com

MON - FRI (8AM - 4:30PM) SAT (8:00AM - 1:00PM) CLOSED SUN

43 Moewai Rd, Whitianga

specials

Servicing Whitianga & the surrounding area.

Mobile gantry for easy boat removal

John Bethell

Trades & Services

STUMP GRINDING SERVICES

Three-in-one

ANYTHING FIBREGLASS FIXED RIGHT

free wof with a full service or $50.00 wof check or

Dan looked forward to establishing his business in the premises in Moewai Road, Whitianga. Everything is ship shape and organized. It looks ready and welcoming and parking is easy. It didn’t take him long to realise how businesses, who are dealing with motors, or repairs, restoring things and engineering solutions, can assist each other with referrals and marketing. The three in one of Autoworx, JP Fibreglassing and Iron Works all at the same address but in different engineering sheds – works well. Dan brings a lot of years to motor engine diagnostics, car servicing, WOFs, and hybrid servicing. He loves being an automotive engineer, working with the changes in the

ADVERTORIAL

• Industrial SHORT & LONG • Commercial TERM • Households HIRE • Building Sites

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Tony Jump (aka Jumpy) 027 251 1410 ironworks2112@gmail.com NZ manufactured aluminium windows and doors since 1990: - New builds & renovations - Replacement joinery in existing homes

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Photo: FernVision

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MERCURY BAY SANDBLASTERS

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JIMMY RODLEY CONCRETE POLISHING LTD Owner/Operated 25 years experience High quality finishes • Ground and polished concrete floors • Residential and commercial • Outdoor patios and driveways • Garage floors • Floor prep • Shot blasting • Fire hearths Contact Jimmy Rodley 027 656 8717 jimmyrodley@hotmail.com | 31 Wells Place, Whitianga

18 | The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026

Whitianga Contact Stu Macfarlane Mobile: 021 914 226 Email: stu@drainagesystems.co.nz web: www.drainagesystems.co.nz www.theinformer.co.nz

Trades & Services

HEAT PUMPS

MAXIMISE YOUR NUMBER OF

WHITIANGA

FARRIER AND HOOF TRIMMING SERVICE

Sales and installation of Mitsubishi and Fujitsu heat-pump/air conditioning.

SALEABLE SECTIONS

SUBDIVISION SPECIALISTS // SITE SURVEYS AND BOUNDARIES

Check out our

Call Now: Emma Heeney and Mark Blayney

Call Bill for a free no obligation quote. 027 2714803

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Phone Tony 027 494 7692

07 866 0088

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Windscreens

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Showers

0800 268 632 surveyingservices.co.nz

Splashbacks

Call 027 557 7023 shorelinepainters23@gmail.com

Mirrors

ROOF I NG FLASHINGS CLADDING

SCAFFOLD I NG

Residential & Commercial Glass

07 867 1772 (24hrs)

SHRINK WRAPPING SAFETY NETS TEMPORARY FENCING STAGING

www.penroofscaff.co.nz

WATERPROOF I NG

07 866 4200

info@penroofscaff.co.nz

HOUSE WASH Local, professional, experienced

22 Bryce Street, Whitianga whitianga@gatewayglass.co.nz www.gatewayglass.co.nz

“We’re your one stop shop when it comes to all things glass”.

19 Campbell Street

NEED WINDOW & DOOR REPAIRS?

darren@coastalsigns.co.nz

• WINDOW HANDLES, SEALS, HINGES & STAYS • SECURITY LOCKS FOR WINDOWS & DOORS • SLIDING AND BI-FOLD DOOR ROLLERS, LOCKS & HANDLES • RETRACTABLE INSECT SCREENS

House wash, roof wash, fences, driveway, patios – soft-wash for best moss and lichen clean and treatment, exterior window cleaning or general waterblasting, 100m hose so access no problem.

07 866 5001

Signage - T shirts - Vehicle Graphics Boat Names - Business Cards & more COASTALSIGNS.CO.NZ

LOCAL SERVICING FOR THE COROMANDEL

Phone 0800 737 777 or Andy direct 027 313 4386 email: atlasgroup@xtra.co.nz

CALL US ON 0800 25 25 00

Your local housemover and foundation SPECIALIST Relocatable house packages for sale at 5 & 40 Kohunui St, Ngatea

PYE POWER – ELECTRICIAN Registered electrician servicing Whitianga & the Coromandel. • Wiring & Renovations • Lighting Design • Repairs & Maintenance • Switchboards & Safety Checks Reliable. Experienced. Easy to deal with. 021 724 217 trade@pyepower.co.nz www.pyepower.co.nz

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WE MAKE THE EARTH MOVE

Mobile: 0274 934 212 A/Hrs 07 866 0505

Planners Plus LIMITED 5 Monk Street, Whitianga Office Ph: 07 8671087 Email: info@plannersplus.co.nz David: 027 4994833 Tracey: 027 4907988 See us for all your land development, planning, subdivision and resource consent requirements.

www.plannersplus.co.nz www.theinformer.co.nz

Your Local Electricians - we do it all! * Domestic * Commercial * Rural * Ph: 07 866 2452 | 027 4972 680 | 24/7 Service

• New Houses, Buildings and Renovations • Heat Pump Installations & Underfloor Heating • Security Alarms & Cameras • Maintenance & Service • Installer of Evnex EV Chargers plus we offer other brands • FREE Quotes - call today

We clean curtains!

• Mould removal specialists • All fabric types, including thermals • Roman blinds – clean and repair • Pick-up/delivery/take down and reinstall

Andy 021 125 1668 Ian 027 442 6001

House Floors Driveways Pathways & Patios Vehicle Crossings Concrete Cutting Any queries or quotes please contact Nathan

027 687 0107 BEFORE

Grant Foote Painting & Decorating Interiors | Exteriors Quality Workmanship

AFTER

Visit our website: www.curtainclinic.co.nz or phone us on 0800 477 478

Advertise with us Ph 07 866 2090

phm.co.nz • sales@phm.co.nz

For all your concreting requirements including:

www.coromandel.laserelectrical.co.nz | p.hally@laserelectrical.co.nz

Local Whitianga agents covering Coromandel to Whangamata

For all your needs on the Hauraki Plains and beyond • LBP qualified • House moving • Houses bought & sold • On-site moves • Jacking & rolling • Structural moving • Re-piling • Re-levelling • Pile driving • Push piles

25+ Years Experience Locally Owned and Operated

0274 343610

glfoote@xtra.co.nz The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026 | 19

Classifieds Church Services

STORAGE AVAILABLE

ACCOMMODATION

Now Leasing:

x www.tongariroriverretreat.com

√ 3m x 6m bays available √ 6m x 10m bays available √ Fully undercover √ Great access and security

UNDERCOVER Car Hoist day hire Call Nick: 021 666 350 Call Caleb: 027 537 5953 STORAGE

book@tongariroriverretreat.com 26 Ngawaka Place, Turangi. Ph 07 386 8949

C3 Church Whitianga Join Us – Expect Miracles! Sundays 10am 22 Coghill Street, Whitianga

St Andrew’s by the Sea Community Church 82 Albert St Whitianga (Opp Z)

SUNDAY WORSHIP 10:00AM

HAIRDRESSER Full or part time

Enquiries: ph 022 1322 061 www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz

If you love cutting hair..... Looking for negotiable hours..... No weekends..... Please phone Sally 0276 849 050

Every Sunday at 9.00am at St Peter the Fisherman 7 Dundas Street, Whitianga ALL WELCOME Enquiries ph 021 781 081 www.anglicanchurchwhitianga.org.nz

LIVE-IN COMPANION/CARER Whitianga

Trish’s Bible Gems

“The salvation of the righteous is of the Lord. He is their strength in the time of trouble. And the Lord shall help them and deliver them... because they trust in Him.” Psalm 37:39-40

LAST WEEK’S PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

PETER’S QUIZ ANSWERS 1) A Greek wine 2) 26 3) 8

4) 30mph 5) Thames

the cut hut

Come, join the family Find peace and friendship.

Anglican Worship

Answers to quiz 17 on page 21

3.6m high doors

SITUATIONS VACANT

We are looking for a kind, reliable and caring person to provide live-in support for my 90-year-old mother in her own home in Whitianga. She would like to remain living at home and needs someone who can provide companionship and practical assistance with everyday life. The role would include: • Preparing simple, healthy meals • Grocery shopping and running occasional errands • Washing and light household duties • Helping with day-to-day activities • Providing companionship and general support • Being in the home overnight so someone is available should she fall or need assistance This is not a nursing position, although previous experience caring for older people would be a definite advantage. We would ideally like a mature, patient and compassionate person who enjoys the company of older people and is comfortable providing a reassuring presence in the home. A driver’s licence would be helpful, and references would be required. Live-in accommodation is provided in Whitianga. Remuneration and working arrangements can be discussed depending on experience and availability. If you, or someone you know, may be interested, please get in touch and tell us a little about yourself and any previous experience you have caring for older people.

STORAGE

8 GOLF ROAD WHITIANGA

Phil 027 343 3023 storage@gr8storage.co.nz

For all your storage needs?!! We have clean dry containers and units in a range of sizes for you to choose from at four different sites. If you need a temporary or longer term storage solution at an affordable price give us a call today!

GR8 STORAGE, WHITIANGA • Units – range of sizes from 2m x 1m to 9m x 6m with roller doors for easy access. Phil – 0273 433023, Car, Prices start from $30 per week. boat, campervan storage, • Containers – range from 1.9m x 1.6m to 6m x 2.4m. Prices start from $27 per week. 20 foot containers available Moewai Road, Whitianga. Ph: 0274 817 258 to store your belongings. E: whiti@totalstorage.co.nz www.totalstorage.co.nz STORAGE SHEDS Whitianga Total Storage, opposite Carters. Ph: 0800 944 660 HOLISTIC HEALTH

FOR SALE

INTUITIVE ENERGY HEALER TAROT CARD READER

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VERNA (027) 320 0079 vernacarrspiritualhealing.com

Tea tree $240 or Pine $150 load per metre2 delivered. Phone (07) 866 3026 or text (027) 866 3026

DEATH NOTICE

Advertise your public notice, goods for sale, and much more in The Informer call 07 866 2090

Please email your CV and references to deb@mrshelf.co.nz

CAMPBELL, Malcolm Regular writer in rural and environment matters for The Informer. Died on Saturday 22 August. Malcolm was 93. He was a successful sustainable farmer and businessman. A pioneer and outspoken on matters relating to practices that destroyed the environment and affected people’s well-being. His farewell will be notified in next week’s issue.

VEHICLES WANTED

VEHICLES WANTED DEAD OR ALIVE

• Cars •Vans• Utes • Trucks

Call 0800 333 398 or text 021 344 449

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or email: nhi.ly@nzhealthgroup.com

20 | The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026

We’d love to hear from you.

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PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

MERCURY BAY CLUB INDOOR BOWLS Monday 17 August 1, Ray Rout, Wayne Fisher and Ian Pudney; 2, Ken Lack, Jan Harvey and Betty Simpson. Good Sports: Lee Pudney, Judy Cullinane and Pat Fisher.

ALTOGETHER YOUR

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

EXPERTS Jasmin Cottle-Gallichan | 021 867 703 Melanie Stephens | 027 600 0349 Residential Property Managers

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Quality homes for quality tenants.

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PROPERTY MANAGEMENT &

Rentals

Coromandel Beaches Rentals Licensed Agent REAA 2008

Shannon Smith M 027 592 0636 P (07) 866 4981

propertymanager.whitianga@harcourts.co.nz PUBLIC NOTICES

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Matarangi Volunteer Fire Brigade Association Inc.

Will be held at the Matarangi Fire Station on Wednesday 16th September 2026 at 7pm. All financial members invited to attend. If you have any queries, please contact: secretarymvfba@gmail.com

Please be advised that Cooks Beach Lawn Mowing & Property Maintenance Services will be carrying out weed control spraying of Onehunga Weed (Prickle Weed) in the Cooks Beach area between 1 September 2026 and 31 October 2026. The area will be signposted, and a spray plan is available on request. For further information, please contact – Bryan Skelton – 027 473 6114 cooksbeachlawnmowing@gmail.com

PIANIST WANTED

The Mercury Bay Community Choir is looking for a backup/ support pianist for our principal pianist Catherine Lee. Applicants need to have a moderate degree of musical proficiency, be willing to try different musical genres and be available for weekly Monday evening practices. Enjoy being part of a team of non-auditioned but passionate, committed singers directed by the talented Kate Nielsen.

MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS 27 players this week so 501 doubles were played. Only one team went through unbeaten in all four sets and they were Rex Donaldson and Richie Neighbours. Highest finish for the men was 114, scored by Fletcher Bale. No finishes over 50 for the ladies and no 180’s scored. It was a battle for the wooden spoon with six teams only winning one set. HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB Week 3 of Te Pare Point Pairs Tuesday 18 August North/South: 1, Peter Clark and Alison Tichbon 56.77; 2, Maggie Beattie and Anne Knowles 52.60; 3, Tia Ormsby and Peter Hogg 52.08. East/West: 1, Bev Dickie and Pam Churchill 63.75%; 2, Angel Butterworth and Maggie Urlich 61.88%; 3, Lee Hughes and Judie Johnson 47.50. MERCURY BAY BRIDGE CLUB August Competition Round 2 Wednesday 19 August North/South: 1, Chris Hilford & Pete Hogg 58.6; 2, Giorgio Allemano & Bob Schibli 55.7; 3, Val Dwight & Sheryll Roberts 55.4. East/West: 1, Robyn Hogg & Jenny Layton 70.8; 2, Ischelle Stevenson & Geoff Jervis 54.2;

Sports 3, Kathy Moy-Low & Terri Lipanovic 48.5 Championship Singles Round 1 Thursday 20 August 1, Terri Lipanovic & Ischelle Stevenson 58.8; 2, Steven Knowles & Peter Clark 53.8; 3=, Tony Van Der Drift & Bryan Patterson, Julie Rutledge & Pat Doube 48.8

MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING CLUB Thursday 20 August Winners: Ray Rout and Sandie Morris Runners-Up: Alan Henderson and Jan Harvey Good Sports: Merle Ward and Cheryl Henderson (again!) MERCURY BAY SNOOKER CLUB Wednesday 19 August At the completion of 3 rounds of matches in section play, it was down to two players with 3 wins each. A closely contested playoff final between Rob Reilly and Doug Pascoe ended with Rob taking the day’s top prize with Doug being the bridesmaid for the second week in a row. Dave Colman, Peter Challis, Peter Schultz and Brian Codyre had two wins each with Brian scoring the highest break of the day with 21. Saturday 22August Three rounds of matches was the order of the day and it was Bob Haase who came through undefeated to take the prizemoney. Those with 2 wins each were Phil Jones, Peter Schultz and Ian Baumgren. The High Break jackpot was not struck.

THE DUNES MATARANGI GOLF CLUB 9 hole Mens net medal Monday 17 August 1, Paul Anderson; 2, Noel Rogers; 3, Peter Murphy; 4, Peter Murphy Ladies Hidden Holes stableford Red Back 9 1, Glenda Philpott; 2, Maree Cabaret; 3, Ruth Fisken. Par 4- 12th Hole- Stbfd 5- Ruth Fisken Par 5- 17th Hole- Stbfd 6Maree Cabaret. Men’s Stableford 1, Robert Fisken; 2, Nick Lambert; 3, Robert Smith; 4, Geoff Atmore; 5, Doug Smith. Twos: Tony De Coek #14, 18; Nick Lambert #14; Wally Hayes #14. NTP: Tony De Coek. Putts: Kerry Mason, Grant Webster. Men’s Yellow Ball Teams Stableford 1, Paul Anderson. Team 1: Lance Croawell, Paul Anderson, Kevin Walmsley Twos: Kevin Walmsley #5. 18 hole Ladies Stableford Shootout Qualifier 1, Sandra Bowen; 2, Kayleen Smith; 3, Michele Swainbank. Ladies 9 Hole Fusion 1, Chrissie Smith; 2, Kayleen Smith; 3, Polly Lambert. Mixed Saturday Haggle Net Day 1, Nick Lambert; 2, Mike Purchase; 3, Ross Alexander; 4, Andy Swainbank; 5, Rowan Toms. Twos: Nick Lambert #5&7; Kevin Adlam #14. NTP: Allison Drake-Wells Continued on page 22

Phone Kate 0272709058 for details

Whitianga Art Group Mercury Bay Community Swimming Pool Trust

AGM

Monday 17th September 2026, 6pm Mercury Bay Medical Centre Joan Gaskell Drive All welcome.

Whitianga Volunteer Coastguard Inc NOTICE OF AGM

Date & Time: Saturday, 29th August 2026 from 11am to 12 noon Venue: Whitianga Coastguard Training Room, Albert Street, Whitianga All members and potential members welcome.

Notice of Annual General Meeting 2026

23 School Road, Whitianga Friday 28 August 12.30pm All welcome

Peter’s quiz Issue 1224 – Quiz 17

1) What is ‘retsina’? 2) Two thirds of 39? 3) How many thrupences in a florin? 4) What speed limit did our 50kph replace? 5) Where is the public swimming pool? For solutions see page 20

www.theinformer.co.nz

The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026 | 21

Sports

Proudly sponsored by

U9 Player of the Day was Carlo J; Player of day today was awarded to Mitch Goble for his excellent defensive skills and Jack Fearnley for his accurate boot on attack; MBAS Senior Boys - Thames Valley Champions.

Continued from page 21 MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB 9 hole Women Net Tuesday 11 August Div 1: 1, Audrey Vickers; 2, Christine Godden Div 2: 1, Jenny Cotterell 9 hole Women Stableford Tuesday 18 August 1, Christine Godden; 2, Sandy Gaskell; 3, Jean Hancock. 9 hole Men Stableford: Tues 11 August 1=, Roderick Bott & Bob Holliday 19; 3=, Graeme Heathcote Patrick Gonthier). NTP #12: Bob Holliday. Tuesday 18 August 1, Bob Holliday with a massive 25 points; 2, Warren Clark; 3, Les Walbridge, Edwin Lyle & Gordon Brain. 18 hole Women Waltz Teams event Wed 12 August 1, Anita Ellmers, Shay Geach & Chris Van Veen; 2, Jo Geoghegan, Debbie Holmes & Lynne Butler; 3, Diane Eccles, Janine Hayde & Angela Cook. Hidden holes Wed19 August Div 1: 1, Dianne Gilmour; 2=, Debbie Holmes, Diane Andrew & Janine Hayde. Div 2: 1=, Colleen de Villiers & Julie Rutledge; 3=, Christine Lowe & Deb Livingstone. 18 hole Men Gross Senior, Dave Enright; Junior, Vern Bahr. Stableford 1=, Wayne Kearney & Vern Bahr; 2, Dave Enright 38; 3, Carl Mitchell. Twos: Steve Geach, Mark Kilgour & Johnny Day.

Wednesday 19 August Gross: Seniors, Mark Boe; Juniors, Jay Marshall. Stableford: 1, Steve “Sharkey” Collins; 2, Carl Mitchell; 3, Jay Marshall. Twos: Big Willie Jones, Steve Collins, Mark Boe & Ken George. Saturday 22 August Gross: Senior, Matty Menzies; Junior, Vern Bahr. Stableford: 1, Vern Bahr; 2=, Ronnie Campbell, Tom Sutcliffe, Matty Menzies. Twos: Matty Menzies, Alan Coubray & Kevin Wallace. 9 hole Men Friday 14 August Stableford: 1, Edwin Lyle; 2=, Don Maguire & Bob Holliday. Friday 21 August Stableford: 1, Edwin Lyle; 2 on countback Gavin Brinkley22; 3, Chian Ho. NTP: Bob Holliday #3; Graham Dun #6. Saturday 15 August Gross: Senior, Mark Boe; Junior, Paul Lupton Stableford: 1, Paul Lupton; 2, Steve Geach; 3, Greg “Snakey” Peterken; 4, Patrick Gonthier. Twos: Dom Szparagowski and Neal Robinson. PURANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB 9 Hole Stableford Tues 18 August 1 Catherine Borlase, 2 Jason Godward, 3 Di Gilmour . 9 Hole putts Thurs 20 August 1 Di Gilmour, 2 =Dave Gibson, Wayne Morrison, John Hughes Astronomy Tours and B&B Phone (07) 866 5343 www.stargazersbb.com

STAR and SPACE STATION GAZING IN 2026 – your guide to the night sky Wednesday, 26 August: There will be a very low ISS pass in the south from 7:00pm. Friday, 28 August: There will be an ISS pass in the SW from 7:01pm. Full Moon tonight. Saturday, 29 August: There will be a good ISS pass in the west from 7:50pm moving right next to Venus before disappearing into the Earth’s shadow. Sunday, 30 August: There will be a bright ISS pass in the SW from 7:02pm while in the west the bright Moon sits below and to the left of Saturn at dawn. Tuesday, 1 September: We have a low ISS pass from 7:02pm in the west moving below Venus and the Moon is now just to the right of Saturn at dawn in the west.

Office: 14 Monk Street, Whitianga 3510, Phone: (07) 866 2090 Office hours: Mon-Fri 9:00am-3:00pm We are online www.theinformer.co.nz Facebook, Instagram @theinformernz

Wednesday, 2 September: The Moon now lies just above and to the right of Saturn at dawn. Venus is getting lower in the western dusk sky but still remains the brightest object in that part of the sky. Jupiter and Mars are visible low in the east before the Sun rises with Jupiter by far the brighter of the two. Meanwhile Saturn is visible low in the west at dawn and the Moon can help us find it. We will have many International Space Station passes to view this week but, as usual, timings may change if it has to be moved to avoid space junk. It is always best to check the website heavensabove.com for updated timings.

FOOTBALL MBFC U9 U9 played Whenuakite at Whenuakite School on 22 August. The final match of the season highlighted just how far the team has progressed - massive congrats to all the players! And THANK YOU to the best parent support crew we’ve seen in kids sport in a long time! We had a tight match which was enjoyed by players and supports on both sides. Our diamond field structure and impressive shots on goal were great to watch. Player of the day awarded by our coaches to Carlo J for his footwork with the ball and defensive efforts, and the opposition awarded it to Rocco S for his dominance across the pitch. Mercury Bay Football U7’s Mercury Bay U7s hosted Te Rerenga for their final match of the season. With a spare U9s pitch available, we gave our players moving up next season a chance to experience a larger space. Players of the Day: Ella and Arlo: For great passing, movement, and defense. Flynn: For increased passing, more tackling, and getting heavily involved in the game. Mercury Bay U11 Marlins The team headed to Tairua to take on the Tairua Tuatara for their final game of the season! What a fantastic, well-matched game to finish the season. Both teams demonstrated some awesome ball skills, communication and teamwork, with the Marlins really having to dig deep each time they were matched for a goal. Player of the Day went to Sean, who

worked hard from start to finish. To all our players, you have shown determination, teamwork and huge improvements in your skills. What a season! Mercury Bay U11 Orcas The Orcas played the best game of their season today against Te Rerenga United. They are a tough opposition and play some awesome strategic football. A big shout out to Te Rerenga for showing up today with some excellent skills for the final game of the season. The team work from the Orcas was exceptional. Orcas demonstrated superb defense they were relentless and chasing every ball. MBAS Senior Boys - Thames Valley Champions The Mercury Bay Area School Senior Boys Football successfully defended their Thames Valley Secondary Schools football title on Thursday. After having never had their name on the trophy, MBAS won it last year, and with only six returning players this year, did it again. MBAS beat Hauraki Plains College 5-1, Te Kauwhata College 7-0, and Morrinsville College 2-0. It was then set up for a repeat of last year’s final against Katikati College. MBAS won 4-3. The team faced Matamata College on Saturday in the semi-final of the Knockout Cup. After drawing 2-2 at full time, unfortunately we were on the wrong side of the penalty shootout this time losing 4-3. Next week is the Tournament Week in Rotorua.

Wednesday 26 August

Friday 28 August

Mercury Bay – the sun, the moon and the tides Thursday 27 August

Sun: Rise 6:47am Set 5:51pm

Sun: Rise 6:45am Set 5:52pm

Sun: Rise 6:44am Set 5:53pm

Sun: Rise 6:42am Set 5:54pm

Moon: Set 5:38am Rise 3:48pm

Moon: Set 6:08am Rise 4:51pm

Moon: Set 6:35am Rise 5:54pm

Moon: Set 7:00am Rise 6:57pm

High Tides:5:19am 5:56pm

High Tides:6:08am 6:40pm

High Tides:6:54am 7:21pm

High Tides:7:38am 8:02pm

HOT WATER Low Tides:11:14am 11:46pm BEACH

HOT WATER Low Tides:12:00pm BEACH

HOT HOT WATER Low Tides:12:30am 12:43pm WATER Low Tides:1:12am 1:24pm BEACH BEACH

Sunday 30 August

Monday 31 August

Tuesday 1 September

Sun: Rise 6:41am Set 5:55pm

Sun: Rise 6:40am Set 5:55pm

Sun: Rise 6:38am Set 5:56pm

Moon: Set 7:24am Rise 8:01pm

Moon: Set 7:49am Rise 9:07pm

Moon: Set 8:16am Rise 10:15pm

High Tides:8:20am 8:42pm

High Tides:9:03am 9:24pm

High Tides:9:46am 10:07pm

HOT WATER Low Tides:1:54am 2:06pm BEACH

HOT WATER Low Tides:2:36am 2:49pm BEACH

HOT WATER Low Tides:3:18am 3:34pm BEACH

Editorial/News: Contact Pauline Stewart, Editor/owner ph 027 271 6182 info@theinformer.co.nz Advertising/advertorial in The Informer: Phone (07) 866 2090, Email sales@theinformer.co.nz Letters to the Editor: 200 words or less please. Name and town of residence required. Email info@theinformer.co.nz Published weekly. Distributed throughout the Coromandel Peninsula to Waihi. Readers’ contributions of articles and letters are welcome. Publication is at the discretion of the Editor. Distribution: 10,500. ISSN 3021-4114 (Print), ISSN 3021-4122 (Online), © 2022 Mercury Bay Informer Ltd

22 | The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026

Saturday 29 August

THIS SPACE COULD BE YOURS Sponsor the tides column

For details email: sales@theinformer.co.nz

Newspaper Layout: Diane Andrew & Debbie Morgan Business Manager & Sales: Emma Gaunt Delivery Managers: Dave Piper & Merv Gregory Writers: Trevor Ammundsen, Jack Biddle, Pam Ferla, Geoff Robinson, Verna Carr

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Proudly sponsored by

Secondary School Rugby Prizegiving

n Tuesday night we had our MBAS school rugby prizegiving which was a fantastic celebration. Players, coaches, families, and supporters gathered to honour the incredible effort put into every training session and match throughout the season from acknowledging the Most Improved Players to celebrating our Most Valuable Players and team leadership and our year 13's moving on. The evening highlighted not only athletic achievement on the field but also the camaraderie and school spirit built off it. A huge thank you goes out to the coaches, managers, and parents whose tireless support made the season such a resounding success! U15 RUGBY PRIZEGIVING RECIPIENTS Rohan Percival – Pig Dog Award Levi French-Hill – Best Back James King – Best Forward ONeal Fenton – Most Consistent Reuben Percival – Team Spirit Lucian Weir – Best All rounder Lucas McDonald – Most Improved Leon Lingard – Best Trainer Liam Ramage – Player of the Year Lucah Kaio – Best supporter Barnaby Roche– Players Player FIRST XV RUGBY PRIZEGIVING RECIPIENTS Ty Willigers – Best Back Kyson Mansell– Best Back Charles Scobie – Team Spirit Cup Jesse Hayward – Pig Dog Award Ridge Ngataua – Pig Dog Award

Sports

Two Regional Service Awards for Hot Water Beach lifesavers

Left to right: Taimania Hinds, Carter Hodge and Dominic Sutton – Eastern Region Club Capability Manager.

BY SANDY LOWE

Photos by Togo Kubota

Taingarunui Hinds – Most Valued Player Oscar Williams – Best Forward Cup Benjamin Turner – Players Player Reice McKinnon – Player of the Year Kayden Te Manu – Most Improved Cup Dan Ray – Best Player Supporter

REPRESENTATIVE SELECTION FOR THAMES VALLEY RUGBY U16 Boys: Nation Johnston, Liam Clothier, Cooper Mullins U16 Girls: Paiggon Kereopa U18 Boys: Kyson Mansell, Ty Willigers, Taj Lorimer, Reo McQueen, Taingarunui Hinds, Tyron Cummings, Jesse Hayward, Reice McKinnon, Oscar McGregor

MERCURY BAY PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC

At a recent Surf Lifesaving New Zealand Eastern Region Awards evening held in Papamoa two of our Senior Hot Water Beach Lifeguards received Service Awards. Taimania Hinds was recognised with the Regional Service Award for her commitment and leadership within the Hot Water Beach Lifeguard Service. A clubbie since 2004, Taimania is now Club Chair, and has contributed as an active lifeguard, Patrol Captain, instructor, volunteer coach, SAR squad member, peer supporter and her

club representative on the Coromandel Lifesaving Committee. Carter Hodge was recognised with the Regional Service Award for his strong leadership and committed service to the Hot Water Beach Lifeguard Service. A lifeguard since 2017, Carter is now Club Captain and has contributed as an active lifeguard, Patrol Captain, instructor, examiner, Junior Surf Coach, RWC Instructor, SAR squad member and long standing club committee member. Sandi Lowe is Administrator, Hot Water Beach Lifeguard Service Inc

Aug‘26

August 2026

Robert Lindsay Dip Phty(Otago) ADP(OMT), Dip.MT.

Co-author of ‘Treat Your Own Shoulder’, ‘Treat Your Own Knee’ & ‘Treat Your Own Hip’ and Associates Rebecca Wood BHScPhysiotherapy Crystal Vause BHScPhysiotherapy, Post Grad Cert Acupuncture

Manipulation / Back and Neck Pain / Work Injuries Sports Injuries / Post Surgery and Fracture Rehab Acupuncture Hand Therapy / Women’s Health Clinic

Physiotherapists with the qualifications to provide excellence in physical health care 24b Lee Street, Whitianga (Next door to Pathlab) Kuaotunu & Hahei Clinics 0800 868 9579

For our latest screening schedule and trailers go to www.mercurytwincinemas.com

What’s that Number? Emergency 24 hours (Ambulance, Fire, Police).............................111 Police (Whitianga) ................................866 4000 Police (Tairua) ........................................864 8888 Police (Coromandel Town)................866 1190 Dog and Noise Control.........................868 0200

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Fight crime anonymously – Call Crime Stoppers................ 0800 555 111 Civil Defence ............................................868 0200 Coromandel Town Medical Centre.866 8500 Mercury Bay Medical Centre.............866 5911 Tairua Medical Centre..........................864 8737

Thames Medical Centre.......................868 9444 Need to talk? Call/text anytime for support from a trained counsellor....................... 1737 Harbourmaster (WRC).............. 0800 800 402 Coastguard Radio Operators.............866 2883 Whitianga Social Services..................866 4476

Whitianga Locksmith Services ....................................... 027 446 6921 Whiti City Cabs................................. 07 866 4777 Whitianga Car Hire......................... 07 866 2226 Go Kiwi Shuttles........................... 0800 446 549 Barrier Air....................................... 0800 900 600

The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026 | 23

HARKIN BOAT WORKS

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• Native • Ornamental • Big Trees • Fruit Trees • Citrus • Hedging • Palms• Hire Plants • Bagged Products • Bulk Mulch • Bulk Compost and more... Open Thurs-Sun 8.30am-4.30pm; others days by phone appointment

WAITAIA NURSERY Waitaia Road, Kuaotunu Phone Colin or Cam 07 869 5910 www.waitaianursery.co.nz

14 Monk St, Whitianga 3510 www.renniecox.co.nz whitianga@renniecox.co.nz 0800RENNIECOX (0800 736 643)

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CURTAIN MAKING ON THOUSANDS OF FABRICS*

SELECTED BLINDS, SHUTTERS AND MOTORISATION^

Plus, a free in-home measure and quote! Right now at Guthrie Bowron, get FREE curtain making* on thousands of fabrics, and 15% off selected blinds, shutters and motorisation^! Orders must be in by 31st August 2026, so pop in store and have a chat to our knowledgeable team about your window furnishings.

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GUTHRIE BOWRON WHITIANGA 2/9 Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga 3510 | 07 866 0035 sales@gbwhitianga.co.nz | facebook.com/gbwhitianga guthriebowron.co.nz *Applies to lined curtains only using selected fabrics over $69.99 per metre when width is under 150cm, or $79.99 and over per metre for wide width or continuous fabrics. Minimum drop of 160cm and maximum height of 250cm. Excludes Roman Blinds, Eyelet Curtains and componentry. Orders must be confirmed by 31st August 2026 to be eligible for this offer. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. ^Selected styles and brands only. Confirmations must be received by 31st August 2026 to be eligible for this offer. Not available in conjunction with any other offer. Please see in-store for full details.

24 | The Coromandel Informer – 25 August 2026