OCEANS FESTIVAL Saddle COAST MEATS COUNTRY
Saturday 19 September 10am-5pm Tickets available from Whitianga i-site or online from oceansfestival.co.nz
Issue 1226 | 8 September2026 | Proudly locally owned and operated
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CONNECTING COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE COROMANDEL PENINSULA
Te Kai Whakarongo
INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE OLDER PERSON
GUEST SPEAKER
CELEBRATION MORNING TEA
David Marshall President, Grey Power New Zealand
EVERYONE WELCOME
Ten Coastguard Graduates T
•PRICE EsuP R E UFURNIT R
en Coastguard graduates were awarded with their certificates on Sunday at Whitianga Coastguard headquarters. There is lots of comment these days about young people scrolling all day on their phones when not at school. That might be true for some but there is no chance of graduating as a Coastguard Cadet without weeks of hard work – mental, physical and formal learning. These ten young people have succeeded in their twelve week course studying VHF (radio operating) competence, Day skippers course, First Aid and In Water Survival. Continued on page 16
Above: Rohan Percival, Most Improved Cadet presented by Stuart Brown.
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FOREWORD ABOUT THE MERCURY BAY VISION DOCUMENT By Pauline Stewart The series of articles published under the title Mercury Bay Vision is drawn from a document submitted to the Thames-Coromandel District Council (TCDC) entitled "A Vision and Planning Document". This document was prepared following submissions made to an earlier vision series run by The Informer, together with additional ideas and contributions from members of the community. It remains a living document, with further commu-
nity input still welcomed and able to be incorporated. The rationale behind this work is simple. Over time, community priorities become clearer. The ideas that are considered most important gain support, attract momentum and ultimately have the greatest potential to become reality. By presenting these visions to our readers, we aim to encourage informed discussion and help advance thinking that is driven by community need, opportunity and passion.
Many of these concepts align closely with the objectives of the Mercury Bay Future Fund. As sufficient legacies and contributions are received, the Fund has the potential to help transform selected visions into reality. Similar Future Fund structures exist throughout the Coromandel, thanks to the efforts and foresight of a number of visionary individuals who established the legal framework for such funds in town centres across the region. The success of any vision, how-
ever, will ultimately depend on the hard work, determination and generosity of the community itself. Local rates alone will never be sufficient to fund projects of this scale and significance. Some visions are distinctly local in nature, while others have regional, national or even international significance, with the Coromandel identified as the ideal location. Such projects will require substantial and sustained investment from a range of sources.
The Sailing Academy is one such vision. Introduced to readers in The Informer (Issue 1225), the concept originated with Alan Hopping, founder of The Lost Spring. The idea has been evolving for several years and has been referenced in previous editions of The Informer. This week, Alan expands on the vision and outlines more of the framework behind the proposal, which continues to attract interest, discussion and growing support.
Youth Leadership Development Programme Mercury Bay Vision Proposal: Expanding on Last Week’s Vision for the Sailing Academy. BY ALAN HOPPING
T
he programme combines maritime development with both international and domestic tourism. Drawing inspiration from sailing academies and tourism initiatives in Canada, and acknowledging successful youth programmes operating in China, the United States and England, the academy would focus on teamwork, discipline, resilience, courage and personal challenge.
It would also embrace strong family values, involving participants from as young as five years old through to seniors, including parents and grandparents. International visitors would enjoy sailing tuition at the historic birthplace of New Zealand's America's Cup challenge, Whitianga in Aotearoa New Zealand. The academy would operate using a model similar to that of New Zealand language schools, attracting students and visitors from around the world.
Note: Following consultancy advice from Boffa Miskell, Tauranga A sustainable income source is essential. A landmark Civic Centre would be constructed above the academy and managed by a professional governing board. The Mercury Bay Sailing Club, as it exists today, would become a beneficiary member of the academy. Income generated from the Civic Centre would help cover operating costs and support the
appointment of internationally recognised professional sailors who would lead and mentor programme participants. THE ACADEMY WOULD BE SELF-FUNDING Primary revenue sources would include: • International tourism • Civic Centre venue hire • Conferences and functions utilising the adjacent airfield for fly-in events The academy would attract peo-
ple of all ages from throughout New Zealand and provide opportunities to learn from internationally successful sailing champions.
RATIONALE New Zealand's school leadership programmes would benefit from ongoing initiatives that help rebuild national pride and encourage young people to see New Zealand as their home of choice, a place where they can build their futures and raise their families.
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Imagine...
PROPOSAL
“The sea is our connection”. Image of Sailing Academy.
As a nation closely connected to the sea, New Zealand has a strong tradition of maritime achievement. Programmes such as Outward Bound and Spirit of New Zealand have successfully inspired and developed young people for more than 60 years. Significant resources are often directed toward addressing social challenges. It is equally important to invest in tomorrow's leaders and build on the foundations already established through existing school leadership programmes. The proposed Sir Michael Fay Sailing Academy would, over time, repay its estimated $40 million investment through tourism, education and community development benefits. Tax revenue generated through accommodation, travel and associated tourism spending would
provide a financial return while creating exciting opportunities for both young and older New Zealanders. The academy would offer intellectual, practical and personal development experiences that many people currently feel are lacking. For once, government investment could deliver measurable financial returns while also enhancing national wellbeing, community pride and international recognition. Whitianga is expected to have a sealed runway within the next five years, supported by plans involving a local company and an international hotel chain, without cost to the New Zealand taxpayer.
ADDITIONAL BENEFITS The significant erosion affecting the adjacent section of State Highway 25 could be addressed
Imagine – Civic Centre (upstairs of the Sailing Academy)
through natural reinstatement measures. Brophy's Beach could be restored to its former splendour through the installation of a groyne and beach replenishment programme. The illustration published last week demonstrated the academy concept, including the groyne structure and partial reclamation of the beach, highlighting its potential as a premier ocean and recreational facility. The total cost of the Sailing Academy is estimated at approxi-
Employment Law & Advocacy Geoff Martin LLB Barrister
• Personal grievances • Unfair/unjust dismissals • Disciplinary meetings • Unpaid wages or leave • Work place harassment • Health and Safety at work • Work stress
021 942 213
geoff@coromandellaw.co.nz
www.coromandellaw.co.nz
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? g n i r p S s i Th g n i l l Se
NOW IS THE PERFECT TIME TO START PLANNING Whether you’re ready to sell now or simply want to understand your property’s value, I’d love to help you make informed decisions with honest advice and local knowledge.
LOCAL KNOWLEDGE
I know the Whitianga market and our community.
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PERSONALISED SERVICE I’m here to listen and help you achieve your property goals.
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world-class sailing academy that combines youth leadership development, tourism, education and community pride in a way that could benefit New Zealand for generations to come. The right place. The perfect location. The right history. We can do this! Disclaimer: This is to clearly distinguish Alan Hopping’s personal views and opinions from any official position, representation, or endorsement by The Lost Spring. Ph: 021 130 1982
THINKING ABOUT
Coromandel
Phone to discuss:-
mately $40 million. This is around half the value of the New Zealand Mayoral Fund and would provide long-term benefits for future generations, helping develop young New Zealanders who may one day become leaders of our nation. Political parties supporting such a significant investment in young people would likely earn recognition from parents, grandparents and future generations of New Zealand leaders. Whitianga provides a unique opportunity to establish a
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HONEST ADVICE. GENUINE CARE. LOCAL KNOWLEDGE. The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026 | 3
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Cnr Campbell St & Cook Dr, Whitianga 07 866 5576
1 Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open daily from 11 am till late 07 866 0013
Enjoy our ‘World famous in Whitianga’ WINNING WHEEL, Meat raffles & Complementary Nibbles!!
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Live music every week!! PISTON BROKE
10.30AM RAFFLES ONLY $1.. DOOR PRIZE RSA
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THE BEST BURGER deal in town IS ON! T& ply BUY 1 GET 1 FREE ! Buy one, Ap on all our get one FREE!! burger & fries meals. Choose from Flintstone, Scotch (Surf ‘n Turf) or Sirloin. All Day, Dine in only
HAPPY HOUR ...Smitty’s Sip Off 3 - 6pm MONDAY MADNESS BINGO !! 1-3PM
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From 5- 5.30pm All your LIVE sport on our Meat raffles, Oyster raffle, BIG SCREEN!
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Mash potatoes, 2 x Sticky Pork ribs pork sausages, peas and Fries, plus & gravy plus your your choice of tap choice of tap beer or beer or house wine house wine
Cheapest drinks around town.... $7 Beer handles & House wine, $10 Quart Bottles - EVERYDAY .. ALL DAY
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1 Blacksmith Lane Whitianga 07 866 0620
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All food half price From 5-7pm, your fav from 6pm till 9.30pm beers will be at prices that’ll have you doing a (Yes, you read that right!!) double take! Throw in our T+C’s Apply Plus Live Music $2 Wings and you’ve got another great reason to with be here! Ben Sunn!
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Fantastic food, MATES RATES Cold beers, Amazing Garden Bar, PLUS the Because Food & BEST banter around! Drinks taste better
Opening Hours .... Monday to Thursday 12pm; Friday to Sunday 11am NEW LUNCH DIP, SIP & DINE ALA CARTE Oysters are SPECIAL 1 Hour Dip, a BRUNCH back! Chorizo and Cocktail, a Main From 9am - 1pm roast kumara Meal + add a swim for HAPPY HOUR risotto $110 $25 DRINKS $19.95/ $27 ALL WEEK FUN We Do Great 4 – 7PM Breakfasts! with a Wine
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Private Hire Charters • Auckland Airport Transfers 4 | The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026
T O TA L M O B I L I T Y AC C P R OV I D E R www.theinformer.co.nz
A mural, an artist, and the story of Whitianga and the Coromandel BY PAULINE STEWART
C
oralie Daniels has written a remarkable story and she is coming to Whitianga to launch her book titled ‘Whitianga’s Mural’ telling that story. Coralie is the daughter of Carol Daniels (aka) Carol Bryson Taylor a long-time resident who lived at 31 Coghill St, Whitianga. She passed away in 2015. The book tells the story of the mural Carol painted on the wall of the Coghill Street supermarket. Sadly, it was painted over by the new owners in 2006. The mural depicted Whitianga’s history, including the timber industry and the early pioneering days of the district. This history was especially important to the late Noel Hewlett, who commissioned the mural. Noel and his wife Nicola owned the supermarket at the time. “When I was in Whitianga last December, I asked Subway if I could measure the wall,” Coralie told The Informer. “It measured 27.5 metres by 6 metres high. I realised the huge scale of what my mother had taken on when she was 54 years old.” Coralie had previously published a book in Australia, but work, family and other com-
This is a portion of the actual mural painted by Carol Daniels; Coralie Daniels, the author of the book “Whitianga’s Mural”, telling the story behind all the images.
mitments put her writing aside. Recently retired, she began writing again. “Having a few photos of the mural in my possession, I thought the story would resonate with people in Whitianga,” she said. “Some of my mother’s old friends were very forthcoming about how they felt about the loss of the mural and how much they connected with the old stories embedded in the art. The mural spoke to everyone in the town.”
The mural told of the Coromandel Peninsula’s kauri forests, the timber industry and the men and women who built the region’s towns and villages. It also showed how kauri was used for waka, ship masts and building materials before most of the Peninsula’s forests disappeared. Coralie’s research was strengthened when local resident Dorothy Preece told her she had a preliminary sketch of the mural at home. The Mercury Bay Museum
also uncovered a complete pencil drawing of the planned work. Coralie researched the mural’s imagery, her mother’s life and early training, and spoke with local residents. She also included anecdotes from her own time living in Whitianga. People attending the launch will be able to see a reproduction of the mural in embroidery, which Coralie is currently making. “The mural project has been a labour of love to honour the artist,
provide more background to its creation and remind people that the town’s history is precious and vital to the culture of the region.” The book launch will be held at Mercury Bay Library from 11.00am to 12 noon on Friday 11 September. A second presentation will take place at the Historical Society AGM at 11.00am on Thursday 17 September at Mercury Bay Club. People will also be able to see the mural reproduction in embroidery that Coralie is currently making. “The mural project has been a labour of love and has set me on a path to honour the artist who painted the mural, and leave a work that may go some way to reminding people that the town's history is precious and vital to enriching the culture of the region.”
BUYING THIS BOOK Signed copies cost $25, including postage. To order, email coralie. daniels@gmail.com or phone +61 (0)428 176 450. You can also enquire at Paper Plus as we are working to have the book available there. Whitianga’s Mural will also be available to borrow from Mercury Bay Library.
PHONE YOUR ORDER AHEAD - READY TO GO!
Ph 07 864 8617 Main Road, Tairua
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MERCURY BAY PHYSIOTHERAPY CLINIC 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 www.theinformer.co.nz
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E: whitianga@flooringxtra.co.nz The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026 | 5
Sewing Bee for ‘Christmas Child’ Shoe Box project
Mike’s Minutes ‘Worth Watching Online’
BY DOROTHY PREECE
S
ewing machines, fabrics and scissors were the order of the day at St Andrew’s Church a couple of weeks ago. For several years Muriel Pedersen has made clothing and toys for the Christmas Child Christmas Appeal, to go into the boxes for children in the Pacific Islands and other remote areas. This year Muriel shared her skills with women who gathered from Whangamata, Pauanui and around Mercury Bay. Muriel demonstrated the method for sewing simple little dresses that will fit into the Christmas boxes. “Little girls in the Islands rarely have anything new to wear, and I enjoy making them,” Muriel said. “We can’t use delicate lace or flimsy fabrics – often the washing is done on rocks in the stream – but we can make pretty dresses with applique and contrasting colours.” The workshop was held in St Andrew’s Church hall. Packs of materials and patterns were also made up on the day, so people can follow the instructions and sew them at home. The wide range of fabrics was
JUST KEY IN THE TITLE AS WRITTEN TO FIND THE VIDEO IN YOUTUBE (And it’s best on a flat screen TV)
Creative sewers. Left: Annie Lynch, Antoinette Beech. Right: Norma Black, Angie Spong, Julie St George, Christmas Child Co-ordinator Robyn Balfour, Muriel Pedersen, Anna Andrews.
all donated by Barbara Blake, who for years has been in the habit of sewing for the boxes. The sewing packs and the Christmas boxes are available from St Andrew’s Church and Opshop. Empty decorated shoe boxes available. Right now you can pick up decorated empty shoeboxes from: • Whitianga: St Patrick’s Catholic, St Peter’s Anglican, Whitianga Baptist, Crossroads Church, C3, St Andrew’s
Church and Opshop, Cogill Café, The Informer office in Monk Street. • Pauanui: Pauanui Information Centre.
• Whangamata: Baptist Church, Whangamata. Recommendations about the toys and essentials that are so much appreciated are included in the boxes that you pick up to fill. Cash donations also help towards shipping the boxes. Last drop-off date: All boxes must be returned by Saturday, 24 October to St Andrews Op Shop. Open Tuesday – Saturday 9.30am – 1.30pm Cash donations also help towards shipping the boxes.
1) Why do we believe in things that aren’t true | Philip Fernbach | TEDxMileHigh It seems we’re living in an era of conspiracy theories, false beliefs and fake news. Philip is a cognitive scientist whose research focuses on why we think we knowmore than we actually do and why we believe things that have been proven to be false. A case of someone who is unaware of his/her incompetence. 2) LAKE TAUPO - THE MOST FREQUENTLY ACTIVE SUPERVOLCANO ON EARTH Geologist Colin Wilson explains the history of the massive Taupo and Oruanui eruptions by analyzing geological layers around New Zealand’s largest lake. 3) Life in China vs. life in America -The TRUTH about the most HATED country in the world. An American just landed in Shanghai and he was not ready for what he saw. In this video he compares life in the USA with life in China. Enjoy watching Mike
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6 | The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026
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John Bertrand Collectables Buying in the Coromandel Region This Week
Gold & Silver At Very High Prices
O
nce again, the gold and collectables buyers from Wellington company John Bertrand Collectables are visiting the Coromandel Region this week. Mr Tony Grant from the company says, “If you are downsizing or wanting to dispose of things because they no longer serve any purpose to you or your family bring them in”. “This week will be a great opportunity to have any items you want to sell assessed by our buyers” said Mr Grant. Particularly wanted are Gold and Silver (in any of its forms) and Collectables such as Coins, Banknotes, War Medals, Old Wind-up Watches and other interesting Small Collectables. “We are keen buyers, especially of the items in the list below” said Mr Grant. “Nothing is too small for our consideration. We are just as happy buying 1 item as we are buying 1,000 items” he said. Mr Anthony (Tony) The buyers will be in the W. Grant Coromandel Region this week. Fellow of the Royal Numismatic (see details below). As Tony Society of New Zealand Incorporated Grant points out “If you are in Director and Buyer doubt about any items you John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd may wish to sell, bring them Author of the John Bertrand NZ Coin & Banknote Catalogue along for an instant appraisal.”
O
ver the last couple of years, we have seen a sharp increase in the price of precious metals. The gold price in New Zealand is still at historically high levels. So, gather up all your unwanted items and make an appointment to see the buyers. Tony Grant says “We can buy gold items in all forms, including Jewellery (Rings, Chains, Brooches etc.), Coins (Sovereigns and the like), Alluvial (River Gold), virtually anything, even Gold Teeth! We also need all Sterling Silver including Cups, Tea Services, Cutlery and Old Coins” he said.
T
Interesting Small Collectables Wanted
C
he buyers from John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd, visiting the Coromandel Region this week, are happy to look at any interesting items, for example vintage pocket and wristwatches such as Rolex, Men’s Omega, Breitling and gold watches etc. Also wanted, pre 1950’s picture postcards, Maori and Pacific artefacts, old fountain pens and other small antique or historical items. “If you have something unusual which you would like to sell, please bring it into one of our venues, we would like the chance to at least have a look at it” said Tony Grant, buyer for the Company. “We will consider anything which may be of interest to a collector” he said.
Some Big Dollars in Early Banknotes
E
arly New Zealand Banknotes dated before 1932 are currently fetching big money! This is according to Mr Tony Grant, author of the John Bertrand New Zealand Coin & Banknote Catalogue. Mr Grant is in the Coromandel Region this week on a buying trip for John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd and would be very keen to see any of these issues. “We will pay at least $300 for any undamaged Ten Shilling or
Collectors Need War Medals
urrently, throughout NZ and the world there is a big demand by collectors for war medals. These cover all wars right through from the New Zealand Land Wars and the Boer War, to the First and Second World Wars and the later Korea and Vietnam conflicts. New Zealand Servicemen and Women first served overseas in the Boer War in South Africa around 1900 and the war medals awarded for this service are needed by the buyers, as are any other Medals from early New Zealand and the New Zealand Wars. General service medals from both the First and Second World Wars will also be purchased, but as can be imagined these were awarded in fairly large numbers. “If a group of medals has any special award for bravery such as the Military Medal, Military or Flying Cross or other medals for Distinguished Conduct or Meritorious Service, these can add great value to a group” stated Mr Tony Grant, buyer for John Bertrand (Collectables) Ltd. “Many families have old medals, some dating back to early Imperial days, that they are not sure what to do with. These are better off in the hands of collectors who will look after them. We will be happy to look at any war medals whatsoever, just bring them in to venues” he said.
One Pound banknote from a New Zealand trading bank dated 1932 or before. Denominations of five pounds and higher would be worth from $700. “Any banknote dated prior to 1900 would be worth at least $1000” said Mr Grant. Also purchased are any Reserve Bank of New Zealand pre-decimal issues, especially 50 Pound notes. All overseas banknotes are also wanted, especially early Pacific Island issues.
D
Old Coins Can Toss Up a Rarity
o you have a bunch of old coins sitting around in your drawers and cupboards? You just never know what rarities may be lurking there. The advice from Tony Grant from John Bertrand (Collectables) Limited is to “bring them in and let us have a look”. “No need to sort anything out just bring them in ‘as is’ and please don’t clean them! We can go through coin accumulations and collections fairly quickly” he said. The buyers are particularly keen to purchase pre-1946 New Zealand Silver Coins and World Silver Coins. “In any event we will buy All Coins,” said Mr Grant.
JOHN BERTRAND (COLLECTABLES) ARE BUYING NOW!! GOLD & SILVER
OLD GOLD
COINS • All Gold & Silver Coins • Gold Sovereigns • Gold Half Sovereigns • NZ Silver Coins 1946 & Before • Also wanted NZ & World Coins after 1946 • Australian Silver Coins to 1963 • English Silver Coins to 1946 • NZ 1935 “Waitangi Crown” • USA Coins up to 1964 • Old Collections & Accumulations of World Coins • Modern Collector’s Coins & Sets • NZ Reserve Bank Sets *No Pennies or Halfpennies Please*
COLLECTABLES
• Gold & Silver Pocket Watches • Any Rolex Watches • Omega Gents Watches • Any Breitling, Jaegar Le Coultre, Vacheron & Constantin, Patek Philippe, or IWC Watches • Moon Phase Watches • Chiming or Alarm Watches (Pocket or Wrist) • Military Watches • Divers Watches • All other pre 1950s wind up watches (parts value only) *No Quartz or Battery Operated Watches Please*
BANKNOTES
• Albums & Accumulations of Pre 1920s Postcards (used or unused) • Old Fountain Pens • Small Chinese & Japanese Antiques • Maori & Pacific Artefacts
• The New Zealand Wars & Boer War Medals • 1st World War Medals • 2nd World War Medals, Stars etc • Orders and Decorations • Korea & Vietnam Medals • Antarctic or other Polar Medals • Fire Brigade Medals • Lodge Medals • Shooting Medals • Military Badges and all other Military Medals • Gold returning Fob Medals or “Tokens of Honour” from residents of small town New Zealand
HISTORICAL MEDALS • A&P Show - Gold, Silver & Bronze Medals • Commemorative Medals & Medalets • Prize Medals (Gold & Silver) • Sports Medals (Gold & Silver) • Life Saving Medals • Shipwreck Medals • Coronation Medals • etc, etc, etc
No item too small for our consideration
JOHN BERTRAND (COLLECTABLES) LTD OUR BUYERS ARE IN YOUR AREA THIS WEEK TE AROHA
Thurs 10 Sept
St John Ambulance Training Rooms, 33 Burgess Street
9 am to 11 am
PAEROA
Thurs 10 Sept
War Memorial Small Hall, 144 Normanby Road
12 noon to 2 pm
THAMES
Fri 11 Sept
Thames Citizens Band Hall, 301a Queen Street
9.30 am to 12 noon
COROMANDEL TOWN
Fri 11 Sept
Coromandel Citizens Hall, 455 Kapanga Road
2 pm to 4 pm
WHITIANGA
Sat 12 Sept
Whitianga Town Hall Supper Room, 24 Monk Street
9 am to 10.30 am
TAIRUA
Sat 12 Sept
St Francis House, 244 Main Road
12 noon to 1.30 pm
WHANGAMATA
Sat 12 Sept
Whangamata Baptist Church Lounge, 301 Port Road
2.30 pm to 4 pm
John Bertrand The Trusted Name In Numismatics Since 1965!
John Bertrand (Collectables) Limited T: 04 232 9832 • E: info@bertrand.co.nz Level 1 Harcourt’s Building, 215 Main Road, Tawa, Wellington 5028 PO Box 323, Wellington 6140
www.theinformer.co.nz
WAR MEDALS ETC
• NZ & Australian “Tradesmen’s” Tokens • NZ Transportation Tokens • Railway Passes • Tram Tokens (not Dunedin Tramways) • Presbyterian Church Communion Tokens • Bread Tokens • Theatre, Cafe, Discount Tokens etc • Any other tokens relating to early New Zealand
WRIST & POCKET WATCHES
• NZ & Australian “Trading Bank” Notes pre 1932 (e.g. Bank of New South Wales, Bank of NZ etc) • Reserve Bank of NZ Pre-Decimal Notes • Any £20, £50 or £100 Notes • Hong Kong & Malayan Banknotes • Australian Pre Decimal Notes • Australian “Star” Notes • Early Fijian and Samoan Banknotes • NZ Traders Promissary Notes (1840s) • NZ Government Debentures • NZ Banknotes overprinted for use in Fiji, Cook Islands etc • Postal Notes • All other World Banknotes
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• Unwanted Jewellery or Broken Rings • Gold Chains • Gold Watch Cases • Alluvial (River) Gold • Dental Gold • Gold Coins • Gold Racing & Trophy Cups
NO APPOINTMENT NECESSARY Please note: If you sell anything to us, suitable ID is required. Please also bring your bank account details for the deposit of funds for larger purchases.
Members of the Australasian Numismatic Dealers Association and the New Zealand Numismatic Dealers Association
The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026 | 7
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coromandel life:style centre 4/9 joan gaskell drive, whitianga 8 | The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026
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Whitianga Wharf pontoon replacement BY VERNA CARR
W
hitianga Wharf has long been the hub of the town's timber, farming and maritime history, and today it remains one of the most important pieces of infrastructure in the district – the vital link between Whitianga and Ferry Landing. Right now, it's also a busy construction site. The existing pontoon has deteriorated due to its age and condition and needs to be replaced. The new structure is a 31m × 5m floating pontoon, built in two sections by Heron Construction at its Whangārei yard, then shipped to Whitianga by barge. Work crews have been removing the old piles and pontoon, drilling new piles into the harbour bed, and floating the new sections into place ready for fixing. Despite the scale of the works, the Whitianga Ferry has continued
Work taking place to replace the pontoon; Historically children love swimming at the Whitianga Wharf.
running throughout construction, thanks to a temporary pontoon installed to keep the crossing operating as normal. The Whitianga Ferry has carried passengers and bicycles across the harbour to Ferry Landing since 1895. It's the floating pontoons that make this possible – rising and falling with the tide so the ferry can load
and unload safely, whatever the weather or sea conditions. The upgrade is about more than just the ferry crossing. Whitianga Wharf is a working part of the town's economy, with scenic tour operators, fishing charters and diving businesses all launching from here. Once finished, the new pontoon will be able to accom-
Wharf user charges BY MERCURY BAY COMMUNITY BOARD CHAIR
These have become an important issue for our commercial boat operators in Whitianga, and I think it is worth explaining why Council introduced the changes. As part of the 2026/27 Annual Plan process, Council looked at how we could reduce pressure on rates while still paying for the infrastructure and services our communities rely on. This involved looking at where those who directly use Council facilities could make a greater contribution towards their costs. I supported that principle through the Annual Plan process and still do. Appropriate user charges can help reduce some of that burden. Council has also advised that revenue from harbour charges is ring-fenced for harbour infrastructure, contributing towards maintenance, safety, upgrades and renewals, consent requirements and operating costs such as water and power. However, the biggest concern raised by Whitianga's commercial operators has been the consultation and implementation process. Zinnia Harris, co-owner of Ocean Leopard, and Mark Jones of Glass Bottom Boat were among those who raised concerns. For Ocean Leopard, the
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annual commercial-use fee increased from $513 to $720 around 40 percent. On top of that came a new $1 per-passenger charge for passengers aged five and over, together with requirements to record passenger numbers for monthly invoicing. Operators were notified on 19 June that the new charging structure would take effect on 1 July, less than two weeks later. While the proposed fee increases had formed part of Council's wider Annual Plan consultation, the operators felt they had not been directly engaged about how the new charging model would work in practice. For businesses with forward bookings and prices already set, that short timeframe gave them little opportunity to understand the implications, raise concerns or adapt. They have also raised questions around passenger reporting, commercially sensitive information and how the passenger levy itself was determined. Importantly, Zinnia and the operators have not argued against user-pays. Their concern is about what represents a fair contribution and the process by which these changes were implemented. The wider economic picture that shouldn't be overlooked is Whitianga Wharf is also part of our public waterfront and is used by locals and visitors for fishing, swimming and
Peter’s quiz Issue 1226 – Quiz 19
modate boats up to nine metres, meaning commercial trawlers will be able to unload their catch directly at the wharf. For many locals, though, the wharf's significance is more personal than economic. Generations of Whitianga kids and teenagers have spent their summers jumping from the wharf's designated
enjoying the harbour. Commercial operators are beneficiaries of the wharf, but they are not its only beneficiaries. The charter businesses also contribute considerably to the wider Mercury Bay economy. As Zinnia has pointed out, collectively they take thousands of visitors onto the water each year, employ local people, purchase fuel locally and use local trades and suppliers. Their customers also stay in local accommodation, eat in our cafés and restaurants and spend money with retailers. That relationship works both ways: the wharf supports these businesses, while the businesses support employment, tourism and economic activity throughout Mercury Bay. Zinnia and Mark brought their concerns directly to the Mercury Bay Community Board on 12 August and asked us to advocate for a review and meaningful engagement with Council. They took those concerns directly to Council's Infrastructure and Finance Committee the following day and I spoke at that meeting as Community Board Chair to advocate on their behalf. Since then, our Mayor and Councillors have continued to engage on the issue, alongside senior Council staff. The concerns around charging arrangements, consultation and implementation are being looked at again.
jumping area, climbing out via ladder to do it all again – all under the eye of council-appointed “Wharf Ambassadors” who keep watch. Younger children can often be found nearby, fishing for sprats off the wharf's edge. The work to install the new pontoon started the first week of September 2026 and is expected to take approximately two weeks (1-14 September 2026), subject to weather and sea conditions. The neighbouring boat ramp caters for trailer boats of all sizes at any state of the tide, and the surrounding area offers parking, public toilets, a children's playground, and a range of cafes and restaurants within easy walking distance. When finished, the new pontoon will carry on Whitianga Wharf's long-standing role as a working, community-focused space at the heart of the town – much as it has for well over a century.
Comment on Pontoon replacement
Verna Carr has captured the history and importance of the wharf really well. There is just one piece of context that I think is important to make clear, particularly as there has been a bit of confusion in the community about where the pontoon replacement has suddenly come from and whether this is a new cost arising from the recent discussions around the wider Esplanade redevelopment. I have checked this against the Council information. The pontoon replacement is not a new project. It has been planned and budgeted for some time and was specifically provided for in the 2024–2034 Long-Term Plan, with $976,000 identified for the pontoon replacement. There was also separate funding identified for safety and operational improvements to the existing wharf. The important distinction is that this work is separate from the wider proposed Esplanade redevelopment. So although people are now seeing a significant amount of construction happening and may understandably wonder where it has suddenly come from, the pontoon replacement itself has actually been on the books for some time as a planned and budgeted renewal of existing infrastructure.
28 Albert Street, Whitianga Phone 07 866 4532 Fax 07 866 4538
1) What is slash? 2) Who was the U.S.A. first black president? 3) Which country was Kylie Minogue born in? 4) Does Iran export oil? 5) When is our winter solstice? For solutions see pg 26 The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026 | 9
Enjoy a day out by train with the Glenbrook Vintage Railway - www.gvr.org.nz
The King COuntry Steam Express Sunday 4 October 2026
The Timberlands Flyer & NZ Timber Museum
Saturday 3 October 2026
Journey to Taumarunui behind Ab 608 through rolling farmland, over the Waiteti Viaduct and across the rugged heart of the King Country.
Steam into the South Waikato’s timber country, with a choice of visiting the New Zealand Timber Museum and TrainWorld or travelling through to Adult $150 | Child $120 Tokoroa.
Hamilton, Te Awamutu Adult $135 | Child $95 Departs Otorohanga & Te Kuiti
- includes Museum Admission & transfers!
The Matamata Steam Explorer Saturday 17 October 2026
The Spiral Steam Special Sunday 1 November 2026
Travel through the lush Waikato countryside behind Ab 608, then enjoy free time exploring Matamata’s cafés, shops and local attractions.
Climb the Raurimu Spiral behind Ab 608 on a spectacular journey through the King Country to Waimarino (National Park) and return.
Adult $105 | Child $65
Adult $189 | Child 149
ex Hamilton
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Glenbrook/Pukekohee Hamilton
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11 Day tour of the north island by rail
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Travel by private steam and heritage diesel hauled train ain around the North Island. Travel the North Island by private heritage train on the Spirit of the Antipodes, a fully ly ver escorted journey filled with scenery, heritage, comfort and character. With steam over on the Raurimu Spiral and Central Plateau, iconic destinations, quality accommodation and carefully selected excursions, this is more than a holiday — it is a great New Zealand rail adventure.
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Highlights include: • Auckland/Waikato to Rotorua • Tauranga to Ohakune by train • New Plymouth & Taranaki Garden Fest. • Manawatu Gorge & Hawkes Bay • Winery, Cape Kidnappers Gannets & Art Deco Tour • Raurimu Spiral by Steam 3 day pre-tour exploration of Auckland and Pre/Post Tour options available. Fully escorted small group touring.
www.gvr.org.nz/tours
Multi-day touring of NZ and Overseas by rail - For info and itineraries www.gvr.org.nz or phone 09 236 3546 10 | The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026
www.theinformer.co.nz
Battle of Britain Digital Decoder commemorations What is the Dead By Agent EJ
Sunday, 13 September 10:00am at Thames Airfield BY GEOFF FURKETT
A
Memorial to Air Chief Marshal Sir Keith Park was inaugurated in his home town of Thames, New Zealand last September at the Annual Battle of Britain Commemorations. The next initiative will see the erection of three polished, black granite tablets to complement that Memorial, on which will be recorded the names of the New Zealand Airmen recognised as being of Sir Winston Churchill’s “The Few”. The Few were the airmen of the Royal Air Force (RAF) and the aviators of the Fleet Air Arm, Royal Navy (RN) who fought the Battle of Britain in the Second World War. The term comes from Winston Churchill's phrase "Never, in the field of human conflict, was so much owed by so many to so few." It also alludes to Shakespeare's famous speech in his play, Henry V: "We few, we happy few, we band of brothers..."
To the best of my knowledge, this will be the only such recognition of “The Few” anywhere in New Zealand. I am sure that many readers and people you know will have some kind of connection with the Battle of Britain and those who served in this pivotal campaign at the beginning of World War 2. This Battle of Britain in the skies above England altered the trajectory of loss and gave the allies valuable time to be able to defend England from being a successful conquest of Nazi Germany. That battle, the strategy of which was from the mind
and skills and experience of Sir Keith Park, changed the course of that early stage of World War Two for England and her European allies and consequently determined a different future for New Zealand. it is important that we remember and hold true to what this boy from Thames, Keith Park, fought for. Thousands of our countrymen and women lost their lives in this period. All wanted peace and freedom for themselves and their future generations. We are seeking donations to bring this important recognition project to fruition. Please show your support for the sacrifices “The Few” made to protect our future. Bank Account Name: Sir Keith Park Memorial Airfield Inc. Bank Account Number: 38 9022 0151185 – 00, Charitable Registration: CC60152. Geoff Furkert FEngNZ, President, Sir Keith Park Memorial Airfield Inc., Chair, Thames Battle of Britain Commemorations, M: 021 833 044, E: geoff.furkert@ xtra.co.nz
Internet Theory?
I was catching up with a mate yesterday who was venting to me about managing a challenging relationship. Mid-conversation, he got a loaded text from his partner about not being mindful enough of her needs. Without missing a beat, he screenshotted it into ChatGPT and asked it to write a response. This was while I was sitting right in front of him. My actual, imperfectly human advice were taken on as initial feedback, and he ultimately used ChatGPT to come up with a polished response worthy of sending back. It sounds absurd, but this kind of thing is far more common than you'd think. AI has quietly moved from tidying up work emails to shaping how people actually communicate with the people they love. Every Google search now runs through AI. Your social feed is put together by an algorithm that knows your location, friendships, and social media habits. This issue, when work emails are essentially one AI replying to another, are part of a wider issue, and it has a name: the Dead Internet Theory. The theory claims much of the internet's content and activity, posts, comments, even entire accounts, is now generated by bots and AI rather than
real people, creating an illusion of human activity that isn't really there. It started as a fringe forum idea, but the numbers have caught up to it. Cloudflare says bots now generate over half of all web traffic, and AI agents that actually click, browse, and fill out forms grew nearly 8,000 percent in the past year alone. One estimate suggests 57 percent of written content online is now AI-generated in some form. There was one small win for the humans, though. In July, Go grandmaster Shin Jin-seo became the first person to beat the world's top AI Go engine in an official series, a threehour, 221-move game, a full decade after AI first proved it could outplay us. We’re stuck in a very inception-like chicken and egg game, where we keep trying to make AI sound and seem more human, and it keeps getting better at the job than we are, and so we end up comparing ourselves to it even more. My mate's text was a small, ordinary example of that loop closing. If we outsource the awkward, honest parts of being human to a machine because it phrases things better, then what was ever the point of writing to each other in the first place?
Three businesses all at 43 Moewai Rd, Whitianga
whitianga wof & service
11am Sunday 13 September 2026 at the
Thames Airfield
395 Nga-ti Maru Highway, Thames
hybrid servicing brake & suspension repairs VEHICLE REPAIRS, MAINTENANCE & DIAGNOSTICS
Dan &Mizen radiators cambelts diagnostic scanning FREE WOF 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) loan car also available, booking essential
6/43 moewai road whitianga COROMANDEL IRON WORKS whitiautoworx@outlook.com
07 211 9531
mob: 020 417 27855
Mechanical engineer and fitter Fit and fabricate whatever is needed All general engineering Tony Jump (aka Jumpy) 027 251 1410 ironworks2112@gmail.com
www.theinformer.co.nz
The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026 | 11
simply present at time
COMMEMORATIONS
John Bethell
specials
86TH BIRTHDAY
Mobile gantry for easy boat removal
free wof with a full service or $50.00 wof check or 15% off any other job.
BATTLE OF BRITAIN
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Find your perfect match with Sleepmap, our free, in-store bed matching system. Spring Sale ends 06.10.26. Discount offers apply to selected beds and bedding only, prices as marked. Offers exclude Everyday Dream prices, run outs, clearance stock (unless otherwise stated) and not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. See in- store for details. 30-Day Comfort Guarantee available for in-store purchases only. We reserve the right to correct errors and misprints and to change product specifications. All products are advertised in good faith and will be available, except in circumstances beyond our control. Product ranges vary between stores and some products are available in selected stores only. *24 months interest free is available on Long Term Finance (LTF) in-store purchases $999 & over until 06.10.26. Offer excludes Everyday Dream Prices, run outs, clearance, layby and not to be used in conjunction with any other offer. Lending criteria, $50 annual Account Fee, fees, Ts&Cs apply. $55 Establishment Fee applies to your first LTF transaction, $35 Advance Fee applies to subsequent LTF transactions. Min payments of 3% of the monthly closing balance or $10 (whichever is greater) are required throughout interest free period. Paying only the minimum monthly payments will not fully repay the loan before the end of the interest free period. Standard Interest Rate of 28.95% p.a. applies to outstanding balance at the end of LTF Interest Free Period. Other interest rates and fees may apply. Rates and fees subject to change. New customers need to apply and be approved for a Q Mastercard credit card. Columbus Financial Services Limited and Consumer Finance Limited reserve the right to amend, suspend or terminate the offer and these Ts&Cs at any time without notice.
BEDS R US THAMES
205 Sealey Street, Thames PH 07 868 6128 12 | The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026
BEDS R US WHANGAMATA
419 Port Road, Whangamata PH 07 865 9027
BEDS R US WHITIANGA
4/9 Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga PH 07 866 5726 www.theinformer.co.nz
COMING EVENTS
OCEANS FESTIVAL COAST MEATS COUNTRY
Saturday 19 September 10am-5pm Tickets available from Whitianga i-site or online from oceansfestival.co.nz
Saddle up!
Whitianga Oceans Festival H ave you got your tickets? The Whitianga Oceans Festival is a standout event which 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. Whitianga Oceans Festival: Saturday 19 September 2026 10.00 am - 5.00pm info@ oceansfestival.co.nz
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 a weekend of celebrations. Thursday ,17 September to Saturday night 19 September. The Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club is a foundation member and will be the hosts for the weekend which brings 77 delegates and their partners to enjoy 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 Whitianga Town Hall. After 5.00pm, on Saturday, 19 September, change your Oceans Meats Country gear Saturday night’s red carpet bonanza. Flippers might not do. Check out Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club website mbgfc.co.nz.
See Auckland Youth Choir event on page 15
BUFFALO BEACH CLUB 18 The Esplanade, Whitianga www.buffalobeachclub.bar
Made By Hand returns to celebrate local creativity Following the success of its inaugural exhibition, Made By Hand is returning to St Andrew’s Church, Albert Street, inviting the community to once again celebrate the remarkable craftsmanship and creativity found throughout Mercury Bay. The original event exceeded organisers’ expectations, with around 25 individuals and community groups showcasing a diverse range of handcrafted work. Visitors enjoyed displays featuring everything from woodworking and blacksmithing to macramé, soap-making, knitting and needlework. Organiser Annie Lynch said the exhibition was never intended to be a craft market. Instead, its purpose was to connect people, highlight local talent, and showcase the many skills and creative pursuits thriving in the community. The enthusiastic response from exhibitors and visitors alike confirmed the event’s value and inspired organisers to make it an annual occasion. This year’s exhibition will be open to the public on Friday 18 September and Saturday 19 September, from 9.30am to 4.00pm
From a previous Hand Made Craft Show.
each day. Admission is free, although koha is appreciated. Everyone is welcome to come along, meet local makers, discover new interests, and celebrate the creativity that makes Mercury Bay such a vibrant community. Made By Hand Exhibition, St Andrew’s Church, Albert Street, Friday 18 & Saturday 19 September, 9.30am to 4.00pm Free entry or by koha.
PIE EATING COMPETITION
Friday, 11 Sept 5:00pm How many pies can you eat as a team? BBC invites 10-12 teams of six hungry people to take part. $20/person.
Fundraising for Te Tiihi Nui Trust This Trust works with young adults in the Coromandel who have varying levels of disability and provide them with a sense of purpose.
Winter hours open 12 noon Tuesday to Sunday. Easy food, drink, relaxation and music. www.theinformer.co.nz
Vodka, Red Bull sales also go to this charity The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026 | 13
EVENTS
Going the distance - Laps At The Lakes BY LILY PAULSEN
highlighted the upcoming Trail Trilogy on 11 October 2026, featuring distances of 9km, 21.1km, 42.2km, 55km and 100km. The inspiration for Laps At The Lakes came from Thompson's experience at Rotorua's Blue Lake 24-Hour Challenge. “Laps At The Lakes was ignited after experiencing the Blue Lake 24-Hour Challenge firsthand. I loved so many aspects about the event, particularly its simplicity and grassroots approach.”
E
arly on Saturday morning, runners and walkers gathered at the Lakes Resort Golf & Country Club in Pāuanui, with the morning sun promising a warm day ahead. Unlike a traditional race, Laps At The Lakes, organised by No Code Events, offers a unique endurance challenge. Participants can complete as many 5.5km laps as they wish within either a six or 12-hour timeframe. The 5 September 2026 event marked the second year of the challenge, directed by local legend Mark Thompson. Using a pay-what-you-want model, 50% of all funds raised are donated to I Am Hope, supporting positive change around mental health in New Zealand. The course winds around the Lakes Resort Golf Course, taking participants through picturesque surroundings and offering the only chance each year to run through the course itself. Participants can enter individually or as part of a team, creating a strong sense of community and shared achievement. Having returned for its second year, I decided to take part again and quickly discovered that Laps At The Lakes is not about being the fastest runner. It is about giving it a go, challenging yourself and enjoying the experience, regardless of your fitness level or running background. There is something humbling
about returning to the same stretch of course lap after lap, adding another tally to the board while watching fellow runners and walkers push themselves toward their own goals. It truly is a race against yourself, and that is what makes it such an enjoyable event. Whether you complete one lap or many, everyone leaves with a sense of accomplishment. The event is suited to the whole family. Whether you are a beginner, an experienced runner, training for a larger event or simply looking for a social walk with friends, Laps At The Lakes offers
something for everyone and continues to grow in popularity. As the hours passed, tally marks on the board steadily increased. Some participants even got creative, drawing trains and words instead of simple marks. The event also highlighted the growing running community in Pāuanui and Tairua. Gabrielle Deane, owner of Paradise Gym, spoke about a trail project currently underway that could become a valuable community asset, encouraging walking and running while bringing people together. Mark Thompson also
Eastern Coromandel Mammography Petition Update PREPARED BY THE MERCURY BAY MEDICAL EQUIPMENT TRUST
14 | The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026
Thank you to everyone that has signed the Petition to date.and to all the volunteers and businesses that have made it easy for people to sign it.. The trustees have received lots of supportive feedback. The completed forms have been collated into the three areas the mobile unit visits: Coromandel town serving as far away as Port Charles and Colville. Whitianga serving the wider Mercury Bay area and Tairua including Pauanui. Note: Anyone living on the Coromandel Peninsula will be able to access
this facility to have a screening Mammogram and can therefore sign this Petition. Current numbers reflect signatures on completed forms collected to 25 August. PETITION RESULTS BY AREA Tairua Pauanui 450 Mercury Bay 1037 Coromandel town 277 Other Peninsula 22
PLACES WHERE YOU CAN SIGN THE PETITION Tairua /Pauanui: Get it On Tairua, Pauanui Library, Tairua Lotto and Stationary, Bella Hair Salon Pauanui, Paradise Gym, Prescotts Garages, Tairua Information Centre
Cooks Beach: Cooks Beach General Store, Hot Water Beach Garden Centre Whitianga: Mercury Bay Pharmacy, Unichem Stephenson’s pharmacy, Whiti Nails and Beauty, The Cut Hut hair dressers, Infinite Fitness Gym Matarangi: 4 Square Matarangi Hahei: Cathedral Cove Macadamias, Hahei General Store Coromandel: James and Turner Hardware, Coromandel Library, Weta Cafe We are aiming for 3000 signatures by 11 September – sign it as soon as possible. All petition forms must be returned to the organisers by Friday 11 September. Thank you for your support. www.theinformer.co.nz
Thames High School Concert Sunday 28 August at St Georges Church
These student work hard at their craft and brought a high quality concert on a Sunday afternoon in their own time for the township of Thames and the people of the Coromandel. (See below advert for Auckland Youth Choir concert in Thames.)
Thames High School Vocal Ensemble. From top left clockwise – Chloe Bergersen, Shannara Smook, Sophia Haakma, Luca Yamamoto, Zaydee Prasaad, Rupali Singh and Harris Elliott-Hogg. Photos: Garry Brandon
Scott Simpson MP for Coromandel Contact me anytime
0800 550 330 • scottsimpson.co.nz mpcoromandel@parliament.govt.nz scottsimpsonmp
Authorised by Scott Simpson, Parliament Buildings, Wellington.
AEROVIEW GARDEN CENTRE
New season fruit trees
have arrived instore
Seed potatoes
We have 14 varieties available including Maori seed potatoes
Open 7 days a week Monday - Sunday 8.30am - 5.00pm
www.theinformer.co.nz
The Dag Man powdered sheep manure back in stock 382 Ngati Maru Highway, Thames
Phone 07 - 868 7960
The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026 | 15
10 years of Hospitality at Stoked BY PAULINE STEWART
B
ex and Andy of Stoked Restaurant and Bar were surrounded by literally hundreds of well-wishers for their tenth birthday last Saturday, 5 September. Balloons, lights and decorations, a free drink on entry and lots and lots of people added to the celebration of this achievement by this young couple. It really all began with Bex doing a backpacking OE in New Zealand. Bex began her journey of New Zealand when she was in her late teens. "It stood out for me and stayed with me. When our youngest daughter was two and a half, I suggested to Andy we make a move to try living overseas before our daughter, Chloe, reached school age. We came over to New Zealand on a holiday visa for a year. We didn't get back on the plane." "We were working on the ski fields at Ohakune and kept coming to the Coromandel Peninsula for holidays. We were getting lots of New Zealand experience in hospitality, which was what we knew well in England. For a time we were running chalets for seven years in Kuaotunu. Nieve arrived so now two children, and we asked ourselves, 'Do we stay doing this or start a new dream of our own?'"
Celebrations all round at Stoked.
Bex and Andy - celebrating 10 years of Stoked Restaurant and Bar.
When Bex and Andy first visited Whitianga, Andy was working in Tairua and Bex was still in Ohakune. Andy needed to stay at the job in Tairua to achieve residency. They were looking after 120 beds and lots of travel was involved in keeping the family together. "We knew we needed to do something for ourselves. We had a lot of experience and we were ready," says Bex.
Their first step was setting up an outside catering company, doing major events on the Coromandel such as the Keltic Fair and Taste of Matarangi. When the Pour House opened at Cooks Beach, they leased their kitchen and prepared all their food for them. "We started looking for a business and we saw this house. We could imagine it clearly as a restaurant. We purchased it and
Coastguard graduates continued Continued from front page They operated in two teams of five over the twelve weeks – Port and Starboard. This course is a partnership with Mercury Bay Area School and Coastguard Boating Education. Coastguard provides the trainers who, for this course, were Peter Hari, Graham Caddy, Martin Little and behind the scenes Diane Phillips doing administration. The cadets are assisted in their training by two safety officers, Bianca Raynel and Connor Moses who are previously graduated cadets and are themselves students at MBAS. The Informer spoke to Stuart Brown, President of Coastguard Whitianga. “Without these volunteer trainers and safety officers, these cadets could not receive their preparation to join Coastguard. This service saves lives and there is a lot of responsibility and knowledge involved for these young people to take in. Our community should be very proud of them and their willingness to step up.” Stuart and Diane Brown do a great deal for Coastguard and are owners of Whitianga Chandlery. Names of those pictured on front
Ward Coleman, outstanding cadet.
page: Cadets on top row in order from left to right is – Liam Fussell, Rohan Percival, Mason Sherman, Slade Harper, Liam Clothier, Lincoln Pepper, Nation Johnston, Ward Coleman, Sam Thomas, (away Jack Nash-Penwarden). Trainers (front row): Graham Caddy, Bianca Raynel, Connor Moses, Pete Hari, Diane Phillips, Martin Little.
Participants include – Coroglen Tavern, Smitty’s, Marina Bay Eatery, Cooked, The Lost Spring, Clove Indian Restaurant, The Blue Lagoon, Blue Ginger, Grace O’Malleys, Basker, BBC and Luke’s Kitchen.
$100 MEAL VOUCHER WIN ACoromandel 16 Dine | outThe Informer – 8 September 2026 at participating local cafés, pubs and restaurants in August and September, put the receipt for your
we know and have done all our years here and back home. We look back at what we have achieved. To come so far, we are very thankful. We had no prior reputation when we began here; we were strangers. Now we are a part of this community. We love fishing and diving and we have made some fabulous friends. "Our message on our tenth birthday as Stoked and as a family is: Thank you for all the continuing support and for making it possible for us to celebrate 10 years in hospitality as STOKED Restaurant and Bar. Thank you to our staff and the Mercury Bay community."
Ray’s Report #38 The Land of Smiles BY RAY VAN BEYNEN
The August winners are: Nick Bland who dined at Blue Lagoon and Gregg who dined at Mercury Bay Eatery
IN ASSOCIATION WITH
began converting it. We had in mind a 40-seater restaurant, but over time that has changed. We have added and adjusted. It has evolved as the business has grown. "After Covid we changed the dynamics of Stoked," says Andy. "We knew we needed a more family-friendly ambience. People need to feel they could drop in, have a drink and nibbles, and not have to follow the formality of ordering a meal. "We have the perfect location," says Bex. "People feel relaxed about calling in, staying for a drink or spending several hours. We made it more relaxed." "We love hospitality. It is what
For the past fortnight we have been privileged to travel to Thailand for a much-needed holiday. We were fortunate enough to live and work there some twenty years ago. Since then, we have made regular trips back to reconnect with old friends, have a break and get our dental check-ups done. The moment we land at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport we feel right at home. Thailand is internationally known as the Land of Smiles, and Bangkok, or Krung Thep, is known by most expats as the ‘Big Mango’, a nod to New York’s Big Apple, I guess. It is a city of over 9 million people, although there is also a large population of people from Laos, Myanmar and Cambodia who work in the construction industry and are often illegal migrants. Bangkok has a hugely diverse population with over 600,000 Chinese expats, about 40,000 Indian expats (mainly Sikh) and about the same number of
Japanese. It’s hardly surprising, given that Thailand, like Myanmar, is sandwiched between the regional superpowers. The relationship with Japan goes back to World War Two, when parts of the country were occupied by the Japanese. Thailand has been a hereditary monarchy for at least 10 generations, and the current King is the 10th of his line. Thailand is proud of the fact that it was never colonised by European nations, although the relationship with the UK, the Netherlands, the US and the Portuguese goes back centuries. Thailand fought some bitter local wars with both the Burmese and the Cambodians. That particular stoush continues to this day on their common border. The country has been beset by numerous coups by the military, and whilst it’s a democracy, the monarchy, the army and the constitutional courts are the real power in the country. With the large number of ethnic groups in Bangkok,
there are also some very diverse religions. When we lived in Thailand, our son had a week of field trips to a Buddhist temple, a Catholic Church, a Muslim Mosque, a Jewish synagogue and a Sikh temple. When asked which religion he preferred, he replied, ‘The Christian one.’ Why? ‘Because you can eat anything you want.’ My strong impression is that, by and large, all ethnic groups get on well and coexist with little friction. Chinatown is across the road from India Town. The Japanese have their own quarter, with a number of establishments only open to Japanese. The same goes for the religions, although, for many years, due to British and Thai influence, the lower Thai provinces have been predominantly Muslim and have much more in common with Malaysia. We in New Zealand can learn a lot from our Asian neighbours in how to coexist and prosper as a nation. We New Zealanders are a very young community and have a long and potentially difficult route ahead of us.
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What TCDC would gain – and inherit
Part 3: Matamata Piako District Council (MPDC) offers growth, capability and a comparatively light post-water balance sheet. It also carries investment demands, transition risks and a very different rating profile. 4. WHAT PRICE SHOULD TCDC PAY?
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. BY FLEMMING RASMUSSEN
R
eform is required. Councils face tighter funding, workforce and regulatory pressures, and the status quo cannot simply be preserved in aspic. But reform does not answer the structural question: should TCDC merge politically, or become leaner while buying and sharing services commercially? MPDC deserves an objective assessment as a potential TCDC partner. It is neither a rescue package nor a liability to be feared. It is a substantial inland council with different strengths and risks. The question is whether combining those differences creates value for Coromandel communities and on what terms. 1. THE GOOD: PEOPLE, CAPABILITY AND DIVERSIFICATION MPDC brings about 37,636 residents and 15,965 rateable units, compared with TCDC’s roughly 33,700 residents and 28,801 units. Its larger resident base supports productive rural towns, industry and projected growth. That would diversify TCDC’s coastal, visitor and second-home economy and enlarge the pool from which planners, engineers, regulatory staff and project managers can be recruited. After its planned water transfer (to Wai Water), MPDC forecasts gross borrowing of $45.6m, or about $2,856 per rateable unit, against TCDC’s $124.7m, or $4,331 per unit. MPDC brings a large roading network, growth planning and experience servicing industrial trade-waste demand. Those are real capabilities, not slogans.
Operationally, MPDC manages about 1,022 kms of roads, 377 bridges and 224 kms of footpaths, alongside parks, libraries, pools, civic facilities and elderly-person housing. A combined organisation could spread specialist systems and procurement across that platform. MPDC’s forecast population growth - from about 37,600 in 2024 to 48,100 by 2054 – offers a broader long-term revenue base if growth infrastructure is funded fairly.
2. THE BAD: NUMBERS DO NOT TRAVEL ALONE The favourable debt comparison needs a warning label. MPDC plans to transfer water and wastewater operations to Waikato Waters on October 1 this year (2026). Discontinued water activity therefore dominates its reported $18.5m 2026/27 surplus. The continuing council is forecast to spend $72.4m against $63.8m of revenue – a deficit of about $8.6m. Water risk also does not vanish: ownership interests, guarantees, pricing and asset-condition exposure remain relevant. Growth is both an asset and a liability. MPDC’s infrastructure strategy identifies about $1.08 billion of capital investment over 30 years, including renewals, service improvements and growth projects. Its wastewater systems face industrial loading, inflow and infiltration and capacity pressures; 19% of stormwater pipe materials are recorded as unknown. Deferred or affordability-constrained work can become tomorrow’s amalgamated funding claim. Its adopted 2026/27 plan increases the total rates requirement by 5.92% - 10.1% for water activities and 3.6% for other activ-
Flemming Rasmussen.
ities. Those figures are not directly comparable with TCDC after the October 2026 water transfer. They demonstrate why rate harmonisation must separate legacy costs, growth costs and service choices rather than simply averaging three councils’ charges. Representation matters too. MPDC has about 12% more residents than TCDC, while TCDC has about 80% more rateable units than MPDC. A governing body weighted mainly by resident population would give MPDC greater political weight than TCDC even though Coromandel properties contribute a much larger rating base. The filed proposal recognises this “mismatch” but offers no solution. It simply leaves it unanswered and to be addressed in the detailed design. 3. THE INDIFFERENT: SCALE WITHOUT SURRENDER Some claimed benefits are not merger-dependent. TCDC could jointly procure insurance, cyber-security, legal services, engineering panels, road materials, payroll, information technology and asset systems with MPDC or other territorial or unitary authorities. Shared delivery can create scale while each elected council retains its rates, priorities and political accountability. That distinction is important. A larger organisation may reduce duplication, but it also creates integration costs, management layers and standardisation risk. Commercial collaboration should be the control case against which full amalgamation is tested — not dismissed as doing nothing.
Onehunga Weed (Prickle Weed) Control throughout the district
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
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 www.theinformer.co.nz
ent d n epe
The independently reviewed Head Start model estimates an average net present cost of about $450 per rating unit through FY34, an average benefit of about $700 through FY40, and breakeven around FY37. Applied arithmetically to TCDC’s 28,801 units, $700 is about $20.2m, or roughly $54 per unit per year ($4.50/ month: Less than the cost of a cup of coffee) as a simple spread over FY28–FY40. What price are you prepared to pay for that? Remember, there is real risk. It is not a TCDC household forecast: it is a combined model average and depends entirely on efficiencies actually being delivered!
MPDC could be a valuable TCDC partner. It could also import growth and transition costs. Before TCDC surrenders political control, ratepayers should see an audited opening balance sheet, asset-condition and renewal registers, agree: binding legacy-cost rules, a representation formula reflecting our rating base and our communities of interest, and a side-by-side price for a reformed stand-alone TCDC. Good partners still require a good contract. That is in everyone’s best interest! 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.
Your sweet tooth will help Whitianga Toy Library
FROM WHITIANGA TOY LIBRARY The Toy Library is currently fundraising to help support the resources, activities and services provided to local families. The library relies solely on donations, fundraising and grants to operate. They are inviting businesses and households to support their fund raising efforts by purchasing a box or boxes of chocolates for $108. Each box contains 36 Whittaker’s chocolate slabs (a selection of mixed flavours). The great thing about this fundraiser is that your business could resell the choco-
lates for $3 each, allowing you to recover the full $108 while still supporting the Toy Library. The committee is very aware there are lots of worthy causes in the community and so are very appreciative of your consideration. Every box purchased helps continue providing affordable access to toys, mum and bubs groups and resources for local families. If you would like to purchase a box (or even a few) email and we can arrange payment and delivery. Email: whiti. toylibrary@gmail.com Whitianga Toy Library - Shop 4, Blacksmith Lane Whitianga.
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)
Phone 021 594 705 FRasmussen@coromandelchambers.co.nz The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026 | 17
Our Coromandel News from Thames-Coromandel District Council
8 September 2026
Esplanade upgrade plans stopped Plans to upgrade Whitianga Esplanade will no longer go ahead. However, health and safety concerns that prompted the initial project will still be addressed. At its 25 August meeting, Council confirmed Mercury Bay Community Board’s recommendation to stop stage 3 of the approved Whitianga Esplanade Redevelopment Project. The project had been in its investigative stages, looking at how to manage ongoing health and safety risks from a mix of recreational, commercial
PREPARE NOW FOR AN EL NIÑO SUMMER
and visitor activity in The Esplanade and Whitianga Wharf area. Stage 2 of the project identified separating the various user groups as the preferred solution. Instead, Council directed staff to further investigate alternative safety improvements to comply with legislative requirements. The Community Board, reflecting concerns of some in the community at the $12.57 million funding allocated in the 2024-2034 Long Term Plan in the 20272030 years, asked that the project cease.
WORK CONTINUES TO RATE REBATES HELP REPLACE PONTOON
Due to a strong El Niño, a hot, dry and windy summer is likely on the way for the Coromandel. This means greater risk of drought, vegetation fires and water restrictions. While we can’t do much about weather, we can take steps now to protect our families, properties and communities. Looking after the Coromandel is a team effort. We all have a part to play. Stay in the know and find out more El Niño tips at www.tcdc.govt.nz/elnino
El Niño is on the way Take steps now to help protect your families, properties and communities.
On tank water? Check it now.
Stay in the know.
Keep an eye on weather, fire and Council updates.
www.tcdc.govt.nz/elnino
Heavy machinery is needed to carry out the work, meaning the southern side of the wharf is temporarily closed and an alternative ferry berth has been installed on the northern side during this time.
Tairua Coastal Protection Thank you to everyone who took part in our Tairua Coastal Protection survey. We had a great response from residents and homeowners, as well as input from key businesses. You can hear the team report back at the Tairua-Pāuanui Community Board’s meeting on Monday 12 October at 10am in person or online via www.tcdc.govt.nz/meetings We’ll also be publicising the outcome widely on Council’s website and email newsletters.
n eting is on Wed esday 21 October fr ard me om 9 o B t cdc.govt.nz/m . w w y w . t am itianga rcury Bay Communi h e e W t , t i n S g s onk M At our serv 0 1 ice centre,
TCDCSEPT2026
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18 | The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026
The Annual Plan increase affects the total amount of rates Council collects. The move to Capital Value doesn't increase the total rates collected. It changes how rates are shared between properties.
Work to replace the pontoon at Whitianga Wharf continues this week. Our Council is replacing the pontoon with a safer and more accessible version that will better cater to wharf and ferry users.
The next Me
@ThamesCoromandelDistrictCouncil
• The move from Land Value (LV) to Capital Value (CV) rating
Find out more and see what it means for you at www.tcdc.govt.nz/rateschanges
Weather and sea conditions pending, the replacement pontoon is expected to be installed and completed by the end of this week.
Check in on neighbours.
• The 2026/27 Annual Plan rates increase of 3.97%
Some properties will pay more, some less, and some may see very little change.
More information can be found at www.tcdc.govt.nz/whitiangapontoon
Clear long grass, tidy up around buildings and reduce fire risk.
For most properties, there are two major changes at play:
www.tcdc.govt.nz customer.services@tcdc.govt.nz Private Bag, 515 Mackay St, Thames Phone: 07 868 0200
GRASS CARP FOR COOKS BEACH LAKES Our Council has received approval to release grass carp into the two stormwater lakes at Cooks Beach as a tool to manage excessive aquatic plant growth. The grass carp are not koi carp and are used effectively to control vegetation throughout New Zealand in areas such as Lake Kereta, Lake Tūtira and Lake Wainamu. Grass carp are a carefully managed, herbivorous fish that provide a cost-effective and environmentally focussed option for long-term aquatic weed management.
Claymark Hauraki Coromandel Business Awards Congratulations to the finalists, with judges selecting finalists from more than 120 high-quality entries across the judged categories and more than 5,000 public votes cast in the People's Choice Awards. Winners will be revealed at the Gala Evening on Thursday 15 October at the Thames War Memorial Civic Centre. Check out the finalists and get your tickets at www.tcdc.govt.nz/HCBA www.theinformer.co.nz
Mercury Bay businesses confident but costs remain a concern BY WINTON BEBBINGTON
Following the recent Mercury Bay Business Association AGM, the Association wanted to take a fresh look at how local businesses are feeling, what challenges they are facing, and where they believe greater focus is needed. Rather than assume what businesses need, the MBBA conducted a Business Confidence Survey to hear directly from those operating across Mercury Bay. The first survey received responses from 27 businesses across a range of sectors and provides an encouraging picture of the year ahead. More than 80% of respondents said they were either very or somewhat confident about their business over the next 12 months. Of those able to compare their
Winton Bebbington.
performance with this time last year, 50% said their business was performing better, while a further 34.6% said they were performing about the same. But confidence does not mean
Police Report
WHITIANGA POLICE REPORT: Monday 10 August to Sunday 6 September GENERAL: Tuesday, 11 August a male was reported as being disorderly on Cobham Lane. He will be spoken to regarding his actions. Friday,14 August a vehicle was reported as stolen from a Centennial Drive address. The vehicle has since been recovered and police are conducting enquiries to identify the offender. Saturday, 15 August a burglary was reported at a South Highway address. Old vehicle batteries were stolen from the site. Sunday, 16 August a female was arrested for obstructing a public place. She is facing charges in court due to her behaviour. Monday, 17 August a male was threatening and aggressive towards staff at an Albert Street address. He was spoken to and trespassed from the location. Also 17th, a female was caught by staff shoplifting from a Lee Street address. The female became aggressive towards staff and assaulted one of the store members. She has since been spoken to by police and a formal warning was issued. Wednesday, 19 August a report was made regarding two sheep being shot with a crossbow at a Kaimarama Road property. Unfortunately, both sheep were required to be put down due to their injuries. Thursday, 20 August a burglary was reported at a Jackman Avenue address. 2x 45kg gas cylinders were taken from the address. Also 20th, a trailer was reported as stolen from a School Road address. This has since been recovered and returned to the owner. Also 20th, a Kawasaki motorcycle was stolen from a Cooks Lookout address. Tuesday, 25 August a burglary was reported as having occurred www.theinformer.co.nz
at a South Highway address. Diesel was stolen from the property. Wednesday, 26 August a stolen vehicle was located on Boat Harbour Road. Enquiries are continuing to locate the offender who fled from the area on foot. Friday, 28 August a shoplifting incident occurred at a Matarangi premises. Enquiries are being made to identify the female offender. Saturday, 29 August a burglary was reported at an Onerere Drive address. A 45kg gas cylinder was stolen from the address. Tuesday, 1 September, a burglary was reported occurring at a Sarah Avenue address. A 9kg gas bottle was stolen from the property. Thursday, 3 September, a burglary was reported at a Matarangi Drive address. Diesel was stolen from the location. ARRESTS: 1x female arrested for Obstruct Public Place 1x male arrested for Assault Person in Family Relationship
OCCURRENCES: Saturday, 15 August a Family Harm incident was reported at a Buffalo Beach Road address. All parties were spoken to by police. Monday,17 August two brothers were arguing with each other on Cook Drive. They have both been spoken to regarding the incident. Tuesday,18 August a verbal argument occurred at a Cooks Lookout address. Both parties were spoken to by police. Friday, 21 August a Family Harm occurred at a Grange Road address. The offending party was issued with a Police Safety Order. Monday, 24 August a Family Harm incident occurred at a Bruce Street address. Both parties were spoken to by police. Wednesday, 26 August a Family Harm incident occurred at a Pacific Place address. The intox-
businesses are without challenges. The clearest message was around cost. Twenty of the 27 respondents identified the cost of doing business as an issue affecting them. When asked what would have the biggest positive impact on business in Mercury Bay, a common theme was growing the local economy. Businesses raised stronger tourism and destination promotion, more year-round events, better roading and infrastructure, housing, and improvements to Council processes. The survey also highlighted an opportunity for stronger connections between the business community and decision-makers, with a number of respondents reporting limited engagement with both Thames-Coromandel District
icated person was issued with a Police Safety Order. Sunday, 30 August a Family Harm incident occurred at a White Street address. All parties were spoken to by police. Tuesday, 1 September an Assault occurred at a Springbok Avenue address. The offending male was subsequently arrested and charged. Sunday, 6 September an intoxicated argument occurred between a couple at a Kaimarama Road address. Both parties were spoken to by police.
TRAFFIC: Tuesday, 11 August a vehicle crashed through paddock fencing on SH25, Otapaurau. The offending driver quickly drove from the area and failed to notify the property owner of the damage. Friday, 21 August a vehicle collision occurred on Centennial Drive. The offending driver has failed to negotiate a bend and struck a parked vehicle. Monday, 24 August a disqualified driver was stopped while driving on Kupe Drive. They are now facing further charges in court. Also 24th, an intoxicated driver was stopped on Lee Street. The driver was issued with infringements as a result. Saturday, 29 August an intoxicated driver was stopped on The Esplanade. As a result of the breath test the driver will be appearing in court for drink driving. Thursday, 3 September a vehicle collision occurred on SH25, Kaimarama. The vehicle slid off the road and rolled. Friday, 4 September a vehicle collision occurred on Cholmondeley Crescent. The driver was found to be intoxicated and is facing charges in court. Sunday, 6 September a number of motorists were stopped for exceeding the applicable speed limits around the Whitianga area. Please slow down.
Council and their local Member of Parliament. The purpose of the survey was not simply to produce a set of numbers, but to give the Association a clearer understanding of where local businesses are at and where it can make a difference. Before we decide where the Business Association should put its energy, we need to listen to the people actually doing business here. It is really encouraging to see more than 80% of respondents confident about the year ahead, particularly when we know businesses are still facing pressure from rising costs. What has stood out to me is that businesses want Mercury Bay to grow. They want more people visiting, spending and doing business here throughout the year.
This gives us a starting point. We can take these results to Council, government and other organisations and advocate with something behind us. The views of our local business community. The MBBA plans to continue the Business Confidence Survey in the future, creating a regular snapshot of the Mercury Bay economy and allowing the Association to track how business confidence and the issues facing businesses change over time. The results will also help guide the MBBA’s priorities, advocacy and conversations with local and central government. Editor’s comments: Winton Bebbington is a board member of the MB Business Association and business owner of Peninsula Tyres in Monk Street, Whitianga. He initiated and prepared this survey.
BY MICHELLE RHODES
psychology graduate who, has been busy building a new life in Thames with husband Allan; raising their young daughter Arlowe. Jessie is getting involved in local children’s groups; becoming part of and nurturing the kind of community she wants her family to grow up in. Allan is about to start his training to become a teacher in health and physical education here in New Zealand. Already using his rugby skills, Allan is currently part of the Vixen’s ladies rugby coaching team. The Vixen’s are based in Thames but take players from a number of regions including the Coromandel. So, having travelled over on the ferry and walked with the Unicorns along front beach to the Eggsentric Café; I was invited to Thames to watch the ladies final match this last Saturday …. so look out for my next story .
The Unicorns came to town
Jessie from Canada met Allan her now Kiwi husband in Canada whilst he was there teaching. A sporty couple the Canadian down hill skier fell in love with the Kiwi cricketer and rugby player. Their love brought them Arlowe their daughter. “We came for a holiday and never left – we love New Zealand.” Where has this writer heard that before? The Unicorn outfits were originally created by a relative in Canada for Halloween. Arlowe wanted to wear them on their day trip to Whitianga. The Unicorn family live in Thames and had brought their car to be repaired at RDP Panel and Paint. RDP had provided them with amazing customer service and professionalism plus a courtesy car to take them home. Jessie is an educator and
The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026 | 19
WIN! Games & Puzzles Issue 1226
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Issue 1226 – Grid 1193
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Madeline is CFM’s ‘Pick of the Bunch’
Kauri 2000 records placed in safe hands
A
surprise bouquet arrived at Madeline Saunders’ door last Thursday. The card said she had been nominated to receive Coromandel FM’s monthly ‘Pick of the Bunch’ bouquet. “It was amazing,” Madeline said. “These beautiful flowers just arrived. “It turns out someone nominated me to CFM. This is so kind.” Each month CFM asks for nominations for ‘someone deserving in the community’. Madeline is well known in Mercury Bay for her generosity and her genuine interest in people. She has been Manager at St Andrew’s Opshop for many years. “I can’t remember how long, but I love it. I love all the staff and all the people who come into the shop,” Madeline says. As well as being at the Opshop almost every day, Madeline helps with the distribution of Manawa Kai Community Meals from the church on Monday nights, and she rarely misses a Sunday service. Until recently she was the co-ordinator for the Community Bus, which is no
Jill Kaeppeli and Alison Henry handing records to Geraldine Dunwoodie (centre).
Madeline with the surprise bouquet.
longer operational. The (anonymous) person who nominated Madeline for the bouquet says, “I think she really deserves recognition. Madeline does not enjoy good health, some days are very difficult, but
she just soldiers on because she loves the work and the people.” The bouquets are gifted to the community by the Thames florist, ‘Flowers on Pollen’ and the recipients chosen by the CFM team.
Two Coromandel businesses - tourism award finalists
Well done to two Coromandel tourism businesses that have achieved finalist status in the 2026 New Zealand Tourism Awards. Hahei Explorer is a finalist in the Tourism Talent Employer of Choice Award, while Glass Bottom Boat is a finalist in the Tourism Industry New Zealand Trust Tourism Excellence Award. “We are a small family-owned operation, so recognition on the national stage is very special for us. Hahei Explorer has been in operation since 1992. This is the second year in a row we have been named finalists, so we're pretty stoked!” said Jess Harnett and Tom Bromhead. Glass Bottom Boat owners Mark and Hayley Jones are also celebrating the recognition. “We are so excited to announce that we have been selected as finalists for both the Hauraki-Coromandel Business Awards as well as the Tourism Industry Aotearoa (TIA) Tourism Awards. Thank you to everyone that has sent a message, left a comment or popped in to say well done. Also a huge congratulations to all the other finalists. We look forward to celebrating these award evenings with everyone.” The New Zealand Tourism Awards celebrate outstanding individuals and businesses from across the tour-
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In the final stages of winding up the Kauri 2000 Trust, Trust Chair Alison Henry and longtime trustee Jill Kaeppeli have handed the Trust’s records, to Geraldine Dunwoodie, Supervisor of The Coromandel Heritage Trust, for placement in the archives at The Treasury in Thames, where they will be safely preserved in a controlled environment and available to the public. “Our records add to the story of kauri on the Coromandel, and it is ideal to have this information in one place where it can be professionally cared for,”
said Alison Henry. Having our planting records at The Treasury means our 25 years of hard but rewarding work will never be lost. Kauri 2000 began with a goal of planting 2,000 kauri to mark the new millennium and help restore trees lost to milling in the early 1800s. The charitable trust was established with Dame Cath Tizard as patron, supported by guidance from forestry and conservation experts. The original target soon grew as the vision of restoring kauri forests on the Coromandel captured
public support from people across the community. Donations came from New Zealand and overseas, BNZ Markets provided sponsorship, and hundreds of volunteers and school students helped the Trust plant more than 55,000 kauri across the Coromandel Peninsula over the next 25 years. It is the end of an era for a truly remarkable project. While it is sad to see this initiative close, we are finishing on a high note, having far exceeded our original goals for the Coromandel Peninsula.
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ism industry, recognising excellence, innovation and leadership, while providing inspiration to other tourism businesses. This year marked a second record-breaking year in a row for the awards, with 177 entries received. The awards include three individual categories recognising outstanding performers in the industry, and eleven business categories celebrating business excellence, industry alignment and organisations that are living the values of the Tourism Sustainability Commitment. Winners will be announced at the New Zealand Tourism Awards Dinner on 4 November 2026 at the Te Pae Christchurch Convention Centre. Well done to both Hahei Explorer and Glass Bottom Boat on this outstanding achievement!
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OP SHOPS
What’s On
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 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 Room. Start date 10th August. Phone Kate 027 2709058 for more information.
22 | The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026
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. 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 League Nights 5.30-7.30pm, Saturdays Social & New Members 9.30-11.30am, Sundays All Players 4-6pm. Members, Guests & Visitors $5, a complimentary session is available to local new players wanting to try pickleball – all equipment provided, please wear non marking court shoes. Membership is $20 annually and online application is provided at www. mercurybaypickleball.co.nz . Outdoor sessions are held at Mercury Bay Sport Park which are weather dependant and 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 Tairua ZUMBA GOLD class – Tuesday’s weekly 9am/10am. Held upstairs in Tairua Fishing & Marine Club. $7. All welcome, contact Theresa 0275760602. 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.
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TAIRUA NEWS
Wearable Arts @ Tairua Library
Travellers and locals love Tairua’s CLOVE TO GO
BY PAM FERLA
Tairua Library invites you to show your creativity and have fun in the Wearable Arts Fashion Show planned for Wednesday, September 16 at the library. You are invited to make a wearable garment with Maori or recycled materials and enter in one of the following categories. Connection – Tuta te Hononga, Musical – Ahua Puoro, Cultural – He Ara Tangata, Recycled – Waihangatia Ano, Environment – Tiaki Talao, and Gods/Deities – Nga Atua. This is a part of coming together and embracing Te reo Week. Entries will need a model to wear the design and walk the runway. Librarian Kayla McCallum says she is seeing a good response to the event. “It has been fantastic seeing all the creative ideas and the work that is being put into the costumes. All ages are welcome to take part and have a chance to win a prize.
Julie McCallum (left) and Kayla McCallum of Tairua Library are pictured modelling two of the entries in the Wearab le Arts Fashion Show.
Kayla says closing date for entries has now been extended to Monday, 14 September. You can register your interest or find out more by emailing kayla.maccallum@tcdc.gov.nz.
From Whangapoua
Not so long ago there was an Indian restaurant in Tairua called Sangam but it closed and so did Sangam in Whitianga. Navi came with his family and bought the business changing its name to CLOVE and soon after Sushil Paul , friend, colleague and chef came to join Navi. Clove Restaurant and Bar in Blacksmith Lane is a beautiful restaurant serving Indian cuisine both Asian and New Zealand style. Its spacious, beautifully themed décor is equal to the delicious servings. The people in Tairua and visitors travelling to Clove kept asking, “When are you opening in Tairua?” After many requests, Navi and Sushil, set up a mobile food caravan and CLOVE TO GO was born. Their mobile food caravan has proved very popular –
Curry is also a frequent order form customers. “Our team makes all this possible,” says Navi. Sushil and Navi are a formidable team at Clove in Whitianga and at Tairua’s CLOVE TO GO. You’ll find their food caravan right in the centre of the Tairua township. Their online orders make for no wait at all. Ph: 07 864 7699 or email: clovetairua@gmail.com
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FIREWOOD FOR SALE
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! • Units – range of sizes from 2m x 1m to 9m x 6m with roller doors for easy access. Prices start from $30 per week. • Containers – range from 1.9m x 1.6m to 6m x 2.4m. Prices start from $27 per week. Moewai Road, Whitianga. Ph: 0274 817 258
E: whiti@totalstorage.co.nz www.totalstorage.co.nz
ACCOMMODATION OFFERED x www.tongariroriverretreat.com
Tea tree $240 or Pine $150 load per metre2 delivered. Phone (07) 866 3026 or text (027) 866 3026
book@tongariroriverretreat.com 26 Ngawaka Place, Turangi. Ph 07 386 8949
Ph 07 866 2090 www.theinformer.co.nz
ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING will be held on
WEDNESDAY 9th SEPTEMBER
1.30pm IN ST ANDREW’S CHURCH HALL All Welcome
ST ANDREW’S COMMUNITY CHURCH Albert Street, Whitianga
SITUATIONS VACANT
TAIRUA INFORMATION CENTRE MANAGER
Are you a natural leader who loves people, thrives on variety, and enjoys making things happen? We are seeking an enthusiastic and capable fulltime Manager to lead our team of volunteers. This is an exciting opportunity for a motivated, organised, customer-focused person who can confidently lead day-to-day operations, develop the business, support the local community and create positive experiences for visitors and customers. If you enjoy a busy and varied environment and are excited by the opportunity to develop and grow our Information Centre, we would love to hear from you. An Information Pack is available on request from the Tairua Information Centre. To apply: Send your CV, and a covering letter outlining your relevant experience and why you would be a great fit for the role, to The Chair, Tairua Information Centre, PO Box 76, Tairua, or email sally.davisjowett@gmail.com Applications close: 4pm, 7 October 2026.
The Annual Congregational Meeting will be held on SUNDAY 13th SEPTEMBER After Sunday Service
MERCURY BAY CLUB
CASUAL DUTY MANAGER
The Mercury Bay Club Inc. is seeking an experienced Duty Manager to join our team in Whitianga. Casual position with no guaranteed hours, with potential for regular hours for the right person. Shifts may include mornings, evenings, weekends and late-night functions. Key responsibilities include: • Opening and closing the Club • Managing bar service and supporting staff • Member service and membership assistance • Setting up and packing down functions • Stock and general operational duties • Maintaining safety and Club standards Applicants should have strong bar/hospitality experience and preferably previous Duty Manager or supervisory experience. A current Manager’s Certificate is preferred, however applicants eligible and willing to obtain one will be considered. We are looking for someone reliable, practical, flexible and confident running a shift independently. To apply, send your CV and a short covering letter outlining your experience and availability to: manager@mercurybayclub.co.nz Full job description available on request.
DUTY MANAGER COUPLE Live and work in beautiful Coromandel
STORAGE SHEDS Whitianga Total Storage, opposite Carters. Ph: 0800 944 660 FOR SALE
NOTICE OF AGM ST ANDREW’S CHURCH OP-SHOP
NOTICE OF
OUR PROPERTY MANAGER OF 25 YEARS
Advertise with us
HAIRDRESSER Full or part time
PUBLIC NOTICES
ANNUAL MEETING
Krissie Brand
Rentals
the cut hut
Quality homes for quality tenants.
Call
PROPERTY MANAGEMENT &
SITUATIONS VACANT
If you love cutting hair..... Looking for negotiable hours..... No weekends..... Please phone Sally 0276 849 050
Jasmin Cottle-Gallichan | 021 867 703 Melanie Stephens | 027 600 0349 Residential Property Managers
WANTED!
Classifieds
HOLISTIC HEALTH
INTUITIVE ENERGY HEALER TAROT CARD READER VERNA (027) 320 0079 vernacarrspiritualhealing.com
Flaxmill is a high-quality accommodation and function centre located on the stunning east coast of the Coromandel, just over two hours from Auckland, Tauranga and Hamilton. We are looking for an additional couple to join our established team of two couples, helping us continue to provide a high level of customer service and property management. If you enjoy meeting people, working as part of a team and living in a stunning coastal environment, this could be an exciting opportunity for you. About the role We are seeking a couple who are: • Friendly, warm and approachable • Empathetic and genuinely customer-focused • Confident overseeing the day-to-day operation and presentation of a property • Organised and able to confidently juggle multiple priorities • Practical, hands-on and willing to get involved where needed • Comfortable working independently as well as alongside an established team • Professional and committed to providing an exceptional guest experience Previous experience in successfully managing similar facilities would be an advantage. Experience with the Seekom Property Management System and online travel agencies (OTAs) would be an advantage. Each couple works as an independent contractor, undertaking approximately 160–180 days per year on a 10-day rotating roster, providing a great balance between work and time off. During your rostered days on, a furnished one-bedroom house is provided onsite. Accommodation for your off-duty days may be negotiated. Join our team This is an opportunity to become part of an established, supportive team while enjoying the lifestyle of the Coromandel. If you and your partner have the experience, personality and enthusiasm we’re looking for, we’d love to hear from you. To find out more about Flaxmill, visit: www.flaxmillbay.co.nz Applicants must have New Zealand residency or a valid New Zealand work visa.
Please send your CV to alneenie1@icloud.com
St Andrew’s Church, Albert St
‘Made By Hand’ Exhibition
A Celebration of Creativity in Mercury Bay Open to the public: Friday 18th Sept: 9:30 - 4pm Saturday 19th: 9:30 - 4pm No charge – Koha appreciated All Welcome– Come, Celebrate!
TE WHANAU O PIRINIHA RAUA KO ELLEN POTAE TRUST
AGM 2026 Saturday 26 September 11.30am at Te Ahi Kaa Offices, 190 Kapanga Rd, Coromandel
Notice that Property will be Sold or Leased To: Phillip David Sloane
TAKE NOTICE that the property situated at 157 Kaimarama Road, Coromandel Peninsula, being Lot 2 Deposited Plan 357745 with Certificate of Title identifier 235101, South Auckland Registry, is subject to a judgment for unpaid rates due by Phillip David Sloane, as given in the District Court of New Zealand at Thames on 9 October 2025, for the sum of $8,764.64 owed to the Thames Coromandel District Council. FURTHER TAKE NOTICE that the said property will be sold or leased by public tender or auction, under the provisions of the Local Government (Rating) Act 2002, after 6 months from 29 May 2026, unless the outstanding amount of the judgment and costs, interest, all legal costs incurred by the Thames Coromandel District Council, and all rates due on the property up to the date of payment and applicable charges are paid to the Waikato Regional Council and the Thames-Coromandel District Council. Contact the Thames Coromandel District Council to remedy the rates arrears on the property by calling 07 8680200 or sending an email to customer.services@tcdc.govt. nz, or visit the Mercury Bay Service Centre at 10 Monk Street, Whitianga, between 8:30am and 4pm on week days.
To the crew who constructed the new smooth roundabout on Joan Gaskill Drive. An efficient traffic guidance for the new shop opposite Woolworths.
The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026 | 25
Classifieds
Church Services
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
Sports
Annual Pig Hunt at Coroglen Tavern
11 pigs were weighed in – lots of fresh wild pork to be eaten
Come, join the family Find peace and friendship.
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
Trish’s Bible Gems
“Let us lay aside every burden and the sin which does so easily beset us. And let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the author and finisher of our faith.” Hebrews 12:1&2
LAST WEEK’S PUZZLE SOLUTIONS
04.08.2026
05.08.2026 06.08.2026 09.08.2026
14.08.2026
15.08.2026
15.08.2026 16.08.2026
Answers to quiz 19 on page 9
1) Pine forest waste 4) Yes
2) Barak Obama 5) 21 June
22.08.2026
24.08.2026
3) Australia
26.08.2026
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, 9 September: The Moon now lies right below Jupiter at dawn and there will be a Tiangong pass from 5:44am in the west. Thursday, 10 September: The Moon is now well below Jupiter at dawn. Saturday, 12 September: An absolutely minute crescent Moon sits just beside faint Mercury in the early dusk western sky. Sunday, 13 September: The minute crescent Moon now lies half way between Mercury and much brighter Venus at dusk. Monday, 14 September: The thin crescent Moon now lies just above Venus at dusk which is at its highest while at dawn we have a good ISS pass in the north from 5:31am followed by a Tiangong pass in the SW from 5:42am. Tuesday, 15 September:
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
The crescent Moon is well above Venus at dusk. Wednesday, 16 September: Venus sits midway between the crescent Moon and faint Mercury on the western dusk horizon and from 5:34am in the NE we have a bright ISS pass followed by a Tiangong pass from 5:22am in the SW. Venus is at its highest this week before it starts to descend towards the Sun over the following weeks. It is by far the brightest thing in the NW dusk sky and continues to wander around Spica from night to night on its seven month path around the Sun. Saturn is visible in the east, rising just after sunset and remains visible all night. The Moon can help us find Jupiter and faint Mercury this week.
Mission Assist a child suffering a medical complaint. The child was flown to Starship Hospital in a serious condition. Coromandel Assist a patient suffering injuries from a reported assault. The patient was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a critical condition. All enquiries refer to NZ Police. Coromandel Crew were stood down enroute and returned to base. Thames Assist with the interhospital transfer of a female patient in her 20’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition. Thames Assist with the interhospital transfer of a child. The child was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital. Thames Assist with the interhospital transfer of a male patient in his 70’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown from Thames Hospital to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition. Whitianga Assist a baby suffering a medical complaint. The baby was flown to Waikato Hospital in a moderate condition. Whitianga Assist a male patient in his 70’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a moderate condition. Whitianga Assist ambulance with a male patient suffering a medical complaint and in a minor condition. He was treated and transportation to hospital by helicopter was not required. Crew returned to base. Coromandel Assist a patient suffering injury from an assault and in a serious condition. Treated at scene, transportation to hospital by helicopter was not required and crew returned to base. Mercury Island Assist a patient suffering a medical complaint. The patient was flown to Auckland City Hospital in a moderate condition. Cooks Beach Assist a female patient in her 30’s suffering a medical complaint. She was flown to Waikato Hospital in a serious condition. Tairua Assist a male patient in his 60’s suffering a medical complaint. He was flown to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition.
Mercury Bay – the sun, the moon and the tides
Wednesday 9 September
Thursday 10 September
Friday 11 September
Saturday 12 September
Sun: Rise 6:27am Set 6:02pm
Sun: Rise 6:25am Set 6:03pm
Sun: Rise 6:24am Set 6:04pm
Sun: Rise 6:22am Set 6:05pm
Moon: Rise 5:12am Set 3:49pm
Moon: Rise 5:43am Set 5:00pm
Moon: Rise 6:11am Set 6:04pm
Moon: Rise 6:36am Set 7:14pm
High Tides:4:46am 5:22pm
High Tides:5:48am
High Tides:6:44am 7:08pm
High Tides:7:36am 7:56pm
HOT WATER Low Tides:10:38am 11:17pm BEACH
HOT WATER Low Tides:11:37am BEACH
HOT HOT WATER Low Tides:12:13am 12:31pm WATER Low Tides:1:04am 1:22pm BEACH BEACH
Sunday 13 September
Monday 14 September
Tuesday 15 September
Sun: Rise 6:21am Set 6:06pm
Sun: Rise 6:19am Set 6:06pm
Sun: Rise 6:18am Set 6:07pm
Moon: Rise 7:02am Set 8:19pm
Moon: Rise 7:28am Set 9:24pm
Moon: Rise 7:56am Set 10:27pm
High Tides:8:24am 8:42pm
High Tides:9:10am 9:26pm
High Tides:9:54am 10:08pm
HOT WATER Low Tides:1:53am 2:09pm BEACH
HOT WATER Low Tides:2:38am 2:55pm BEACH
HOT WATER Low Tides:3:22am 3:40pm 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
26 | The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026
Junior Heaviest: Brax Monrad Sponsors: A huge thankyou once again to our Sponsors, Hunting and Fishing Whitianga, Peninsula Vets, Place Makers Whitianga, Mercury Bay Pharmacy and of course the Coroglen Tavern. Thank you to everyone that helped out beforehand and on the day. Huge shout out to the Coroglen Taverns Staff.
Date Area 03.08.2026 Whitianga
14.08.2026
PETER’S QUIZ ANSWERS
Whitianga Pig Hunters Club Heaviest Boar Seniors: 1 Harley Hanning, 2 Jamie Murphy, 3 Dan Gaskell. Biggest Tusks:1 Jamie Murphy, 2 Laurie & Brax Monrad, 3 Austin Brear. Lady Hunter Award: Donna Brear, Gemma Lee, Liana Johnston. Average Weight: Laurie & Brax Monrad
Coromandel Rescue Missions
Enquiries: ph 022 1322 061 www.standrewsbythesea.org.nz
Anglican Worship
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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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Sports
Proudly sponsored by
L to R: Winners of the Fours Tournament at Cooks Beach - Frank Caulton, Jude Leabourn, Sumer Bartleet, Vern Harris.
COOKS BEACH INDOOR BOWLS The Cooks Beach Indoor Bowls Club completed their Fours Tournament on Sunday 6 September. Winners: Frank Caulton, Jude Leabourn, Sumer Bartleet, Vern Harris.. Runners Up: Keith Wright, Joan Phillips, Lynn Hammond, Tony Kelly. MERCURY BAY CLUB INDOOR BOWLS Monday 31 August 1, Ian Pudney, Judy Cullinane & Betty Russell. 2, Wayne Fisher, Jan Harvey & Colleen Holmes Good sports, Lee Pudney, Lionel Lawrence &Pat Fisher. MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING Thursday 3 September Winners: Alan Henderson & Judy Cullinane. Runners Up: Lionel Lawrence and Cheryl Henderson. Good Sports: Merle Ward, Sandie Morris and Betty Simpson HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB Cooks Beach Pairs Tuesday 1 September North/South: 1, Dave Dylla and Tia Ormsby 60%; 2, Val Dwight and Sue Gill 56.67% East/West: 1, Jenny Hemmings and Alison Tichbon 81.67%; 2, Maggie Beattie and Pam Churchill 51.67%
TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB Monday 31 August North/South: 1, Jocelyn Taylor & Peter McNeil 70.16%; 2, Christine Meinhold & Jim Buffett 51.67%; 3, Jill Huston & Robyn Waters 51.39% East/West: 1, Jenny Hemmings & Just McKenzie 58.25%; 2, Jenny Prince & Sonia Botica 54.25%; 3, Sharon & Ray Verrall 49.80%
MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER Wednesday 2 September An excellent turn-out of players was reduced to 4 players with 3 wins each from 3 games in section-play. Two playoff semi-finals were played with Peter Schultz prevailing over Rob Reilly and Ian Baumgren out-playing Dave Colman. The final between Peter and Ian was a very closely contested affair which was finally decided with a re-spotted black after scores were tied. A fine cut shot to the middle pocket by Peter secured the day’s top prize. Breaks of 24 were recorded by Ian Baumgren and Dave Colman to share the High Break jackpot prize. Saturday 5 September Peter Schultz and Doug Pascoe came through section-play undefeated with three wins each to meet in a play-off final.
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A close tussle ensued but Doug was able to get across the line to take the honours for the day. No high break recorded.
MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS Tuesday 1 September We had 18 players today, so we played singles. There were three players unbeaten on the night. They were Mike Gillett, Beau Hamilton and Bill Bennetto. So, we had a play off which was won by Mike Gillett. He also had the highest finish with 88. There were three 180. They were Rex Donaldson, Stoney and Mike Gillett. A great night had by all.
MERCURY BAY GOLF CLUB 9 Hole Ladies Tues 1 September Gross: Winner Audrey Vickers, 2 Raewyn Hill & 3 Christine Godden. 9 Hole Men -Stableford Winner Jeff Dixon (22) 2nd equal Rodrick Bott & Les Walbridge(19) Two’s: Patrick “I’ve done it again” Gonthier on 18. 18 Hole Ladies Wed 2 September Div.1: Winner, Diane Gilmore 2 Anita Ellmers 3 Debbie Holmes. Div.2: Winner Joanne Geoghegan, 2 Chris “I’m coming Back!” Lowe 3 Fiona Gardien. 18 Hole Men Gross: Nathan Wilson (Snr 74) & Ken George (Jnr 92). Stableford: Greg “Snakey” Peterken on a countback from Kevin “Chief) Smith on 37, 3rd equal Vern Bahr, Wayne Kearney & Jimmy Duncan (35). Two’s: 1 Two only today, Dave Enright. 9 Hole Men Fri 4 September Stableford Winner: Gordon Brain (21) 2 Edwin Lyle (20) 3 Rodrick Bott (18). PURANGI GOLF AND COUNTRY CLUB 9 hole Stableford round 2 P Howarth trophy Tues 1 Sept 1 Frank Geoghegan, 2 Wayne Morrison 9 hole Stableford Cooks Beach Building Supplies Monthly Medal Thurs 3 Sept Winner of Monthly Medal: 1 Steve Borlase, 2 Wayne Morrison, 3 Kelly Phillips. 18 hole nett Sat 5 Sept 1 Frank Geoghegan, 2 Mike Farance, 3 Danny Phillips, 4 Jo Geoghegan. 4BBB nett: Frank Geoghegan and Jeff Bright
THE DUNES MATARANGI GOLF CLUB 9 Hole Men’s Stbfd Shootout Qualifying Haggle Mon 31 Aug 1 Lance Croawell 22, 2 Paul Anderson19, 3 Mark Deutsch 18. 9 Hole Ladies Stbfd Tues 1 Sept Hidden Holes 3 and 5 1 Ruth Fisken 6 on count back, 2 Maree Cabaret 6. 18 Hole Men’s Monthly Nett Medal Wed 2 Sept 1 Nick Lambert 66 on count back, 2 Mike Purchase 66, 3 Norman Gilbert 68. Best Gross: Alan Trow 78 Nearest The Pin #18: Ross Alexander Two’s: Peter Mathias #7, Gary Bancroft #14, Ross Alexander #18. 9 Hole Men’s Stbfd “Bingo, Bango, Bongo” Thurs 3 Sept 1st equal: Darren Gribble, David Griffiths and Peter Mathias (11 each) Best Stableford: Mark Deutsch 23
score the decisive goal, with the final whistle blowing as the ball hit the back of the net to seal a 3-2 result. Special thanks to referee Mike Cornwall for officiating a superb, fair, and competitive match.
Two’s: David Griffiths on Hole 7 18 Hole Ladies Hidden Holes Stbfd 1 Mary Coughlan-Mason, 2 Joanne Dartnall, 3 Kayleen Smith. Two’s: Chrissie Smith # 7 Mixed Haggle Stbfd Sat 5 Sept 1 Neil Purchase 37 on count back, 2 Mike Purchase 37, 3 Brenda Riggs 36 on count back, 4 Ross Alexander 36 Nearest The Pin #18: Robert Smith Two’s: Nick Lambert # 5, Norman Gilbert # 7, Ross Alexander, Gary Bancroft, Polly Lambert # 14, Robert Smith #18.
SUCCESSFUL WEEK FOR MBAS SENIOR BOYS FOOTBALL By Mark Collins After beating HBHS Maroon away last weekend 2-1, the MBAS Senior Boys left for the Trident Football Tournament in Rotorua on Sunday. This was a good chance to see if we could compete with some bigger schools. We were the smallest school there, and most likely the youngest too, having six Year 10s with us and only three Year 13s. We beat Feilding High School in our first game 4-0, followed by a close 2-1 loss to Onslow College (who play in the top high school league in Wellington). Tuesday began with another close loss 1-0 to Kingsway College (who came 4th overall), before beating Bethlehem College in a penalty shootout after being level 1-1 at full time. We lost to Papamoa College 1-0, and then to Strathallan in a controversial penalty shoot out. In our final game we lost to Glendowie College as we struggled to field eleven players through injuries and the fact that on our return to Whitianga we had to play Morrinsville College in the title decider for our league, so some players were rested. Overall, a very successful tournament, with us finishing 24th out of 32 teams. Two wins and four close losses. All the schools we played have around 1200-1500 students, so about three times more students than we have.
FOOTBALL
Junior Girls Draw with Cambridge The Junior girls got their first point of the season battling to a well-deserved one all draw with visiting Cambridge. The team had a great game creating a number of chances before Neela Sacult put the Bay ahead going into halftime. In the second half both teams continued to attack but it was Cambridge who took their opportunity earning a draw. Supporters have seen how much the girls have improved throughout the season and they were finally rewarded for their hard work. It was a real team effort with Summer Berry and Charlotte Commins earning player of the day for their defensive display. Next week we welcome Saint Peter‘s for our final game, and will be looking to end the season on a high. Mercury Bay Junior Boys Battle in 2026 Season Finale This team capped off their 2026 season with a display of pure grit and heart, falling just short in a thrilling 3-2 final match against Hamilton Boys Silver. Mercury Bay squad fielded just 11 players with no substitutes available after a three hour drive. Key players Farai and Milan had just competed in a full week of tournament football in Rotorua through to the day prior. Hamilton Boys Silver presented a formidable lineup. The match was played with exceptional sportsmanship. In a remarkable display of fair play, the Hamilton Boys coach called out an offside on his own team’s goal, having the score disallowed. Throughout the contest, Coach Taddy navigated complex tactical challenges, unable to rotate fatigued players as Mercury Bay. Just as the match seemed destined for a draw, a cruel late twist saw Hamilton Boys
Sep‘26
Senior photos by Togo Kubota
w
WINNING THEIR LEAGUE AND THE THAMES VALLEY TITLE On Saturday we played Morrinsville College knowing a draw or win would win us the league. Two first half goals to Noah Palmer and a crucial penalty save to Arlo Hert, followed by a second half goal to our season’s top scorer Curtis Treherne meant the title was ours. Played 10, won 8, drew 2, 38 goals scored, only 3 goals against. Another successful season for the MBAS Senior Boys winning not only their league, but also the Thames Valley title. A big thank you to all our whanau and supporters.
September 2026
MERCURY BAY BRIDGE CLUB August Competition Round 4 Wednesday, 2 September North/South: 1, Kate Palmano & Gavin Hedwig 60.4; 2, Dave Dylla & Anne Knowles 56.3; 3, Giorgio Allemano & Bob Schibli 54.2 East/West: 1, Deidre Stevenson & Rose Tegg 62.5; 2, Susan Swan & Jan Autumn 61.9; 3 Alison Tichbon & Hillary Scott 53.8 Championship Singles Round 3 Thursday, 3 September 1, Rose Tegg & Angela Cook 68.8; 2, Geoff Jervis & Sue Gill 61.3; 3, Deidre Stevenson & Terri Lipanovic 55.0
MBAS Junior Boys football; Senior boys at work; Senior Boys - League and Thames Valley winners.
For our latest screening schedule and trailers go to www.mercurytwincinemas.com
The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026 | 27
Proudly sponsored by
Sports Some big tuna in Winter Tournament BY ALAN PROCTOR
F
ifteen teams took part over the last 6 weeks in the Mercury Bay Club’s Winter Tuna Fishing Tournament. Some awesome fish came through the weigh station, absolutely blowing last year’s results out of the water! Congratulations go to all our prize winners, and a huge thank you to everyone who took part in the tournament. We want to say a huge thank you to all our sponsors who got behind the tournament this year. Our anglers took home a combined cash and prize pool worth over $20,000, with our sponsors going above and beyond what was originally advertised. We really appreciate all your support! WINNERS Last Tuna winner – Andrew Dreadon of Stunned Mullet $3500 prize pack U17 Angler – Koby Maxwell $2,500 prize pack Lady Angler – Nicola Candy 40.34 kg $3,000 prize pack Heaviest Tuna – 1st – Will Waddell 79.44 kg from Relentless. 2nd – 65.92kg from Asylum 3rd – 56.36 from Asylum
Chloe Roberts with a big tuna; Will Waddell 79.44kg from Relentless; Andrew Dreadon of Mile Zero SBF Tuna 41.46kg; Koby Maxwell 27.82kg from Mad Max.
4th – Richard Hart 50.88kg 5th – 41.46kg Mile Zero
SPONSORS Thank you to our sponsors of the Winter Tuna Tournament: The Stunned Mullet, OKUMA, BONZE Lures, Coastline Excavations, and PJ Builders and Kitchen FX.
FUTURE EVENT The Sherriff Drainage Tagging Club Draw back for another season. Jason & Kirsten Sherriff from Sherriff Drainage are generously backing the Billfish Tagging Draw for another year! All club anglers that tagged a
Marlin or Broadbill in our local waters over the 25/26 season with Mercury Bay Game Fishing Club are once again in the running for an unreal $2,500 cash prize! But…you gotta be there to win it! See you all on the Saturday, 26 September.
HARKIN BOAT WORKS
45+ years of experience in timber and composite construction • New Builds • Modifications • Repairs
Combining traditional craftsmanship with modern techniques
Phone +64212207288 | harkinnz@gmail.com Unit 1, 5 Abrahamson Drive, Whitianga 3510 www.harkinboatworks.com
WANT
• 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
28 | The Coromandel Informer – 8 September 2026
New Zealand’s Most Trusted Curtain & Blind Installers! *
GUTHRIE BOWRON WHITIANGA 2/9 Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga 3510 07 866 0035 | curtains@gbwhitianga.co.nz guthriebowron.co.nz
Book a free in-home measure and quote! www.theinformer.co.nz