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Te Kai Whakarongo Issue 1232 | 20 October 2026 | Proudly locally owned and operated

theinformer.co.nz

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CONNECTING COMMUNITIES ACROSS THE COROMANDEL PENINSULA

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3 business successes Local – World’s Easiest recipes PAGE 3

Claymark Hauraki Coromandel Business Awards PAGE 5

Claymark Hauraki Coromandel Business Awards Supreme Award Winner - Coromandel Shelly Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park.

The Coromandel ferry is back plus shuttle service PAGE 3

exciting news! Your local Satellite installer has added an additional service We are now the official Starlink installer for the upper Coromandel

Too often, especially over the summer months, with all our wonderful visitors the internet can be less than ideal. That is where Starlink comes into its own. This relatively new technology is a clearer way of receiving your internet, especially if you’re still on copper or tower lead technology.

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Fireworks this weekend

Pauline’s Piece

aul Henry brought a great crowd at 2.00pm on Monday 19 October, at the Hangar attached to the Coro Club Café out at Whitianga Airport. There was hardly standing room. He brings the message of The Act Party and he wants people to give the ACT Party their party Vote. Whether you agree with him or not, he speaks persuasively and what he says is well scripted. He is presenting, not performing. Paul is raising issues that many are hesitant to raise publicly. On behalf of ACT, Paul is promising that with ACT, there will be more fairness and less division within our society.’ He is critical of the over-emphasis on karakias being imposed on meetings and events when they are not necessary or wanted. It has a trickle effect of un-ease. Paul Henry is advocating the planned closing down of the Waitangi Tribunal referring to it being over-staffed, over-lawyered and being an ‘eternal’ machine that was set up for a specific purpose which has largely been achieved.

On behalf of ACT he is intentionally stating that there will be less bureaucracy and more results with ACT; more productivity and less of the endless procedures and obstacles that seem to daunt projects and create overspends. The matter of Immigration is of glaring importance – it is open to debate with another party in the current coalition whether the number of migrants working hard and keeping our economy going in several areas will get full support for the three parties. People listened carefully. There appeared to be no protestors. People are searching for a better way forward but scrutinizing the choices carefully. Loyalty from voters to party is still part of their considerations. Promises mean little but personalities still mean a lot particularly when they seem committee and it resonates with what is hurting in people’s lives. What history tells us is that no political party can resolve everything. What is also clear is that no government can be a gravy train and still take a country and

its societies forward. More than ever before I trust voters know this. There was mention that ACT would have liked more results from the Government Coalition. Coalitions particularly three party ones, have to work very hard to be a unified house. Hard work was noted on a number of issues. A fuller account on Paul henry’s presentation comes next week as The Informer was going to print as Paul Henry was still speaking. His second presentation was to be in Thames on Monday evening 6.30pm.

One of Paeroa's most loved community events is back! For many years, the Paeroa Fireworks Display has brought families and friends together for an unforgettable evening of entertainment, community spirit and one of the region's most spectacular fireworks displays. Wrap up warm, pack a picnic blanket and your favourite snacks, and settle in for a fantastic night out with your whānau. Enjoy delicious food from a range of food vendors, family-friendly entertainment, and soak up the festive atmosphere before the night sky comes alive with a dazzling, high-quality fireworks spectacular. Proudly organised by dedicated local volunteers, this annual event continues to delight generations of families and is a highlight of the Hauraki events calendar. Gather your friends, bring the whole family, and join us for an evening of fun, laughter and spectacular fireworks that you won't want to miss! Saturday, 24 October 2026, 5:00 pm

Halloween Carnival at Mercury Bay at Mercury Bay Museum – details next week

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The ferry starts this weekend

Local publisher success –World’s Easiest Recipes BY PAULINE STEWART

arah Holmes lives in Whitianga with her partner Mark Irwin and together they own a business called, ‘The World’s Easiest Recipes’. Volume 5 has just come from the printer – It belongs to Sarah and Mark, and Sarah proudly shows this to readers. “The World’s Easiest Recipes Volume 5 will be available online, in 150 retail stores, Paper Plus shops throughout New Zealand including PaperPlus in Whitianga, twelve Whitcoulls stores as well as sold through a distribution centre in Australia. There are 85 illustrated recipes – breakfasts, mains, desserts, baking, salads and sides. “I raised my kids on these recipes.” says Sarah. “We ate them as a family. I was a single Mum with three children for seventeen years. I chose these recipes for Volume 5 because we enjoyed them as a family. These recipes worked - affordable and not complicated. They couldn’t be. When you are a single Mum, or any parent really, and you want to raise your children with as many as possible opportunities, you double down on what you can do. For me the most natural thing to do was put the value on eating together around the table - the family meal became very important. Things can get very tight. I learned how to make things

Sarah Holmes.

stretch, not just the ingredients, but how to stretch things to create great meals with love and positivity. It is what I wanted to pass on through publishing these recipes.” Sarah has been 20 years in Whitianga. She taught at Mercury Bay Area School for 17 years and for some of that period was Assistant Principal at the highschool. In 2025, Sarah left teaching. It was time for a reset and a new direction. “I never thought I would leave teaching – but I did, and it was the right time. “We started looking at businesses – our grounding principal

www.taraking.co.nz

was that Whitianga was our home it was important for us to stay here and to do something that reflected our values. We found this business, ‘The World’s Easiest Recipes’ - Linda Duncan - a busy working Mum - had published 4 cookbooks. I identified with her and the cookbooks. I knew it was right for me. Mark is a wonderful support even while he is teaching at Coromandel Area School. “I find at this present time people are really stressed about money and the future. Food is a way to feel grounded. The family meal needs to be significant, and can bring a sense of calm and connection, no matter what size your family. When the world is so crazy, it’s nice to do something easy to bring the people you love together.” The recipe images are beautiful and come from Sarah’s kitchen. Each section is so clearly highlighted. The book is also bound so that it sits flat and so easy to refer to when over a mixing bowl, making the whole process incredibly relaxed. COOKBOOK LAUNCH The official launch for Volume 5 of The World’s Easiest Recipes will be this Thursday October 22nd. They can be purchased for $34.95 online via Sarah’s website www.twer. co.nz or by popping in to see Mabel and Derek at Paper Plus Whitianga.

Yes! Yes! The ferry from Auckland to Coromandel Town and Coromandel Town to Auckland Viaduct is back for the summer. Friday afternoon is a direct service from the viaduct, Auckland departing at 4.45pm – arriving at Hannaford’s Wharf at 6.45pm with a return sailing to Auckland at 7.00pm. Your ferry fare includes a shuttle from Hannaford’s Wharf into Coromandel Town. EXPLORE Group has partnered with Mad Campers to do this. In Coromandel town there are also vans for services and hire, 50cc scooters, rental cars organized by Mad Campers. The CoromandelColville Business Community has worked very hard with details to make visitors’ experience welcoming and a genuine holiday.

TRANSPORT HIRE James and Turner Store in the main street of Coromandel Town will arrange rentals for transport – people can then travel near and far. The ferry trips will operate form Friday to Monday and then move to a daily timetable from 27 November through to Easter 2027.

The daily sailings will depart Auckland’s viaduct at 9.15am arriving in Coromandel at 11.45am. On Fridays there is an additional service 4.45pm and arriving in Coromandel 6.45pm. Make the crossing soon and stay a while on the beautiful Coromandel. For all Coromandel Peninsula residents you can now travel to Auckland without the hassle of parking. Catch the Mad Campers shuttle from Coromandel Town to Hannaford’s Wharf and enjoy the city without the long drive to and from. For timetables & bookings: www.exploregroup. co.nz/auckland/coromandel-peninsula. You can contact the Explore Group reservations team by phone to book your ferry or make enquiries: Free phone (NZ) 0800 397 567 Standard Phone 09 359 5987 (or +64 9 359 5987 from overseas).

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The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026 | 3

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Private Hire Charters • Auckland Airport Transfers 4 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 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

Winners of the Business Awards SUPPLIED BY TCDC

employee engagement. Finalists: Franklin Vets, Hauraki Māori Trust Board and Hahei Explorer.

SUPREME WINNER

oromandel Shelly Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park has been named the Supreme Winner at the 2026 Claymark Hauraki Coromandel Business Awards, announced last Friday. The holiday park stood out among 26 finalists across 8 categories, also taking home the Customer Experience Award. Judge Sue Loder said the business impressed across every area of operation. “A very wellrounded business with strong financial performance, smart use of technology, good systems and continual reinvestment.” Thames-Coromandel District Mayor Peter Revell says the Claymark Hauraki Coromandel Business Awards highlight the strength, innovation and dedication of the region’s business community. “It was inspiring to see the passion, resilience and commitment shown by this year’s finalists and winners. “..Each finalist has demonstrated the important role local businesses play in helping our region thrive.” Hauraki District Mayor Toby Adams also acknowledged the calibre of this year’s entrants, and the contribution local businesses make to their communities. “A huge congratulations to everyone

People’s Choice winners: Luke’s Kitchen and Turua Bakery.

who put themselves forward for this year’s awards. …. Our local businesses are a big part of what makes our communities such great places to live, work and visit.” “It’s also fantastic to see Rino Wilkinson recognised with a Service to Business Award. Rino has made an outstanding contribution to our business community.”

PEOPLE’S CHOICE Thames-Coromandel winner: Luke’s Kitchen – Selected by the public as a standout local business and community favourite. Finalist: My Thai. Hauraki winner: Tūrua Bakery – Recognised by the public for its popularity and strong support within the community. Finalist: Woof Woof Ranch. COMMUNITY CONTRIBUTION Community Impact Winner: Whitianga Community Services Trust – Judges praised the Trust’s strong community connections, responsiveness and the meaningful impact it continues to make across Whitianga.

Finalists: Te Whāriki Manawāhine o Hauraki and Tairua Pauanui Sports Fishing Club. Business Impact Winner: My Thai – Judges highlighted the genuine connection between the business, its team and the community, with giving back embedded in its dayto-day operations. Finalists: Whitianga Community Services Trust and Get It On.

CUSTOMER EXPERIENCE Winner: Coromandel Shelly Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park – Outstanding understanding of customers, responsive approach to feedback and commitment to continuously improving the guest experience. Highly Commended: Hahei Explorer Finalists: Woof Woof Ranch and Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga. EMPLOYER EXCELLENCE Winner: New World Whangamatā – Judges were impressed by the supermarket’s strong people-first culture, staff development pathways and exceptional

MARKETING & DIGITAL EDGE Winner: Taylor Projects & Solutions Ltd – Strategic and commercially focused marketing, supported by strong systems and measurable results. Finalists: Bayleys Coromandel and Coromandel Shelly Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park. NEW & EMERGING Winner: Onform PM Limited – Impressive growth, resilience and clear vision, describing it as one to watch for the future. Finalists: Future Health & Fitness Club and Reach’n’Clean.

SUSTAINABILITY Winner: Glass Bottom Boat Whitianga – Commended for its practical, measurable sustainability initiatives and commitment to environmental education and leadership within the tourism sector. Finalists: Build Good Architecture and Driving Creek Railway Ltd. MĀORI BUSINESS EXCELLENCE Winner: Te Whāriki Manawāhine o Hauraki – Celebrated for its strong sense of kaupapa, deep community connections and commitment to creating positive

outcomes for the people it serves. Finalists: Finest Clothing Limited and Te Irirangi o Pare Hauraki – Ngā Iwi FM.

SERVICE TO BUSINESS Outstanding contribution to the business community: • Peter Richardson – A trusted advisor, problem solver and mentor, across Hauraki and Thames-Coromandel through his expertise, generosity and behindthe-scenes support. • Ricky Bowen • Rino Wilkinson (see above) • Colin and Gloria James – Their extraordinary volunteer commitment has helped grow the Historical Maritime Park and Museum into a valued community attraction.

THANK YOU SPONSORS Naming Rights Sponsor – Claymark. Media Sponsor: Coromandel’s CFM. Platinum Sponsor: Craigs Investment Partners. Gold Sponsors: Harkness Henry, Cooper Aitken, Mei’s Dumplings and Momentum Waikato. Silver Sponsors: Gastronomics Restaurant and Bar and Aeroview Garden Centre. For more information visit www.tcdc.govt.nz/HCBA. Editor’s Note: Information supplied by TCDC press release. The Informer did not have a ticket to the awards night and therefore could not be granted access to this public event.

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New World’s Wine Gold Awards

ew World has celebrated its Annual Wine Awards for the 24th time, once again crowning the best 30 wines you can buy for under $30. More than a thousand bottles were put through their paces by a panel of respected wine industry experts. Every wine was tasted blind – no labels, no brands, no bias. Judged on taste alone, each one was swirled, sniffed, sipped and carefully assessed for aroma, flavour, balance and value. After plenty of retasting and shortlisting, the Top 30 finally emerged. On Wednesday 14 October the Mercury Bay Bowling Club played host to the celebrations. Kerry Stanley and his New World team joined forces with representatives from some of the country’s leading wine companies to stage a tasting evening that also doubled as a fundraiser for the Mercury Bay Lions Club. Guests were greeted at the door with a glass of bubbles – always a promising start – and found tasting stations set up around the room. Staff from Delegat’s, EuroVintage, Lion, Stone Pony, Cassels Brewing and Vinarchy were on hand with their best offerings: New Zealand, Australian and even a few French wines covering reds, whites, rosés and more bubbles. The true connoisseurs wandered the room in deep concentration, murmuring the classic lines:

Left: Kerry Stanley owner of New World is host of the wine tasting; Kelcie - Delegats; Lion Troy; Rowan - Eurovintage, with Pat from the Lions Club.

“fragrant and fruity with plenty of character,” “rich and bold,” “Marlborough versus Hawke’s Bay,” and the eternal question of whether an Australian red could possibly outshine a local one. Pairings were debated with the intensity usually reserved for the post mortem of an election. “Perfect with grilled fish.” “Better before dinner.” “Definitely an after-dinner wine.”

The rest of us took a more practical approach. We simply moved from station to station, held out our glasses and said, “I’ll try that one next.” To be fair, there were some very good wines on offer that many of us would never have tried otherwise. The Lions Club’s Pink Ladies did a fabulous job with the catering. Plates of food kept appearing at regular intervals – a thoughtful

touch when there was so much wine flowing. Kerry Stanley is happy to maintain a close working relationship with the Lions and also donated prizes for the raffles. All money raised goes back into good causes around the Whitianga community. The real winner for ordinary shoppers is the Top 30 list itself. It takes the guesswork out of standing in the wine aisle looking

slightly panicked, especially when you’re buying a bottle to share or give as a gift. You can now confidently declare, “Ah yes, 2026 is an excellent vintage – zesty and refreshing with tropical fruit flavours,” and watch your friends nod impressively. Here’s to the grapes, the companies that bottled them, and the friends who make the glass worth raising. Cheers.

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6 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026

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Five candidates, one message

OPINION

It is all about the party vote. BY PATRICK KERR

Glen Bennett

Pamela Grealey

Scott Simpson

Vincent Andersen Mike McCormick

round 90 of us attended the Whangamatā Ratepayers Association's candidates meeting. Five candidates fronted: Scott Simpson (National), Vincent Andersen (NZ First), Pamela Grealey (Greens, Coromandel Town), Ray Cobb (NZ Outdoors & Freedom) and independent Steve Hart. Labour, ACT and Te Pāti Māori did not attend. The mostly 60-plus room mirrored the electorate: in 2023 more than half of Coromandel's roughly 57,000 enrolled voters were 60 or over. THE REAL CONTEST Scott Simpson has held Coromandel since 2011 and won in 2023 by 17,349 votes. The real contest on Saturday was for the party vote, and four of the five asked for it. Mr Simpson was blunt: order the beer you actually want, and party vote National. Mr Andersen wants more NZ First MPs to win portfolios. Ms Grealey said a party vote Green was the only real safeguard for the environment. Mr Cobb wanted a "trim tab" to keep the big parties flying straight. Only Mr Hart, an independent, had no party to sell. Split voting is alive and well: in 2023 more than a quarter of local NZ First party voters gave Mr

www.theinformer.co.nz

Ray Cobb

Steven Hart Independent

Simpson their electorate vote.

THE EMPTY CHAIRS Two candidates sent apologies, one citing a long-standing parliamentary engagement. Te Pāti Māori's absence is perhaps understandable: its energy goes into the Māori electorates, and it drew under 1 percent of the party vote here in 2023. Labour's is harder to excuse – nearly one in five local party votes, in a room asking about superannuation and health. ACT's absence was the most alarming. In 2023 ACT took 12 percent of the Coromandel party vote, well above its 8.6 percent nationally, and David Seymour canvassed the peninsula hard. Perhaps it judged a safe National seat not worth a Saturday morning. Either way, a party that lives on the party vote passed up the

voters most likely to give it one. (The ACT candidate was also absent at the Whitianga Meet the Candidates meeting substituted by the Pukekohe ACT representative who spoke very well.) WHERE THEY AGREED The clearest consensus came on waste minimisation: all five want to stop treating landfill as the answer. Ms Grealey wants a right to repair and product stewardship. Mr Simpson, a former associate minister for waste, pointed to PET recycling and the new soft plastics compactor at our own New World. Mr Andersen, who runs a waste collection business, backed NZ First's container return scheme and energy from waste. Mr Cobb called for eliminating waste at source, and Mr Hart urged us to back the Whan-

gamatā recycling centre. Different routes, but one destination. All accepted that coastal towns carry a summer load, Repco Beach Hop included, that ratepayers cannot fund alone, and all wanted leaner councils and a stronger local voice, if not always by the same means. On conservation, Ms Grealey and Mr Simpson both backed charging international visitors at places like Cathedral Cove. WHERE THEY SPLIT On debt the gulf was wide. Mr Simpson pointed to a return to surplus by 2028/29 and tighter spending. NZ First would trim the public service, buy back BNZ and hold superannuation at 65 aimed squarely at this room. Ms Grealey defended borrowing for infrastructure; Mr Hart and Mr Cobb offered bolder diagnoses.

WHAT WE SHOULD TAKE AWAY For Whangamatā, three questions matter. Who helps fund our summer peak? Who keeps decisions local? Who protects the harbour and coast our economy depends on? On 7 November the electorate vote is likely settled. The party vote is not - and with three parties missing from the stage, it pays to read the policies, not just the signs. Thanks to the Whangamatā Ratepayers Association and moderator Phil Keogh for a respectful, well-run morning, and to all five candidates for turning up. Patrick Kerr is a Whangamatā resident and Chair of the Whangamatā Business Association. He writes in a personal capacity. M 021 56 00 18 | E patrick.kerr@capitala5.com

The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026 | 7

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Kuaotunu Kindergarten’s 20th Birthday T he 20-year birthday of Kūaotunu’s Rudolf Steiner Kindergarten will be a celebration of community spirit. This renowned kindergarten is celebrating its 20th year in its purpose-built home on Saturday, 14 November. All past and present pupils and their families and anyone associated with the kindergarten over the last two decades is warmly invited to attend. The journey from conception to completion of this facility was long but rewarding. A great number of people dedicated considerable time and effort, throughout the construction, to establish this treasured, enduring asset for the whole community. HOW IT ALL BEGAN Ursula Gaebler was a kindergarten teacher and a social worker in her native Germany, working not only with kindergarten-aged children but also troubled youth. Her husband, Lutz, and their baby son, Darvid, came to Kūaotunu in 1981, making New Zealand their home. Ursula soon met local woman Nancy Bacchus, (from the ‘pink house’ on the beach). Nancy was an ‘anthroposophist’ - someone who studies Rudolf Steiner philosophies, with which Ursula was familiar. The pair went on to study the lectures of Rudolf Steiner together which covered his philosophy and educational methods. These differed from the mainstream approach to learning. Through this, Ursula was inspired

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The two founders, Ursula Gaebler and Nancy Bacchus outside the community hall where the original kindergarten was held for 13 years; Nancy with some of the Rudolf Steiner children; Ursula and Nancy with some of the children.

to start a Rudolf Steiner kindy. Nancy declared, “You do it Ursula - I’ll help you.” The year was 1991. They initially hired Kūaotunu Hall for one day a week. That soon grew to two, then three, then four days a week. It became a kindergarten. Between them, Nancy and Ursula set up the programme, making all the toys and equipment together. It was hard work as they had to set up and pack down the hall every day. They always knew they would need their own building. Cliff Heraud, the initiator of Kauri 2000, came to the hall one day. Upon seeing over 20 children engaged in the programme, he remarked, “Ursula, you need your own kindergarten building.” Ursula said, “Yes, that would be wonderful.” Cliff got busy and formed a

Trust to begin the process of fundraising. The Trust was made up of Cliff, Annie Forgie, Jill Kaeppeli, Diane Vetter, Doreen Gardner, Janice Jackson, Verena Brady, Cindy Glenn and Bernice Thompson. It was a great team, all working well together and ultimately seeing the process through to the build’s completion. Meanwhile, one of our local women, Yvonne Harris, happened to be working at the Council at the time and became instrumental in finding a property on which to build the kindy. Remarkably, her investigations led to the discovery of a document, tucked away in a drawer, showing a piece of land available right in the heart of Kūaotunu. Not only was the location ideal, it had been specifically designated for educational purposes. The kindy had

found its tūrangawaewae. It was overgrown and somewhat forgotten but eventually the Trust was granted the property for a very low lease. Funding applications for the build then began in earnest with Government and Pub Charity support finally secured. Local architect, Dave Bryant, generously donated a design for the building. He visited another Rudolf Steiner kindergarten (and school) in Auckland to understand what distinguished Steiner schools from others. Kūaotunu builder, Paul Sayers, and his team, turned the plans into the wonderful, purpose-built facility that is there today. Other local tradesmen and artists gave their time and expertise, using natural materials in imaginative ways to be both functional and to stimulate young children’s minds.

In addition, many generous donations, including gifts of labour and materials, enabled this project to happen. The spirit of the community is deeply embedded in every aspect of the kindergarten, lending an undeniable magic to this cherished place. Throughout the build the kindy continued to operate out of the hall, which neighbours the site. When the new building opened in 2006 they had been in the hall for 13 years. The first teachers at the newly-minted Kūaotunu Rudolf Steiner Kindergarten building were Ursula Gaebler, Anna Hammond, Jules Andrews and, a little later, Ina Franke. Today the kindy is in the capable hands of head teacher, Jan Loane and Tracey Buchanan, who teaches part-time.

The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026 | 9

More than a shed: The Moorings

partners with MenZshed Whitianga

MenZshed morning tea.

BY DEBBIE LEE

he Moorings Village is proud to announce a new partnership with MenZshed Whitianga, bringing together two groups who share a love of community, connection and a good yarn. For anyone who hasn’t yet discovered them, MenZsheds are community workshops where men come together to share skills, work on projects and enjoy each other’s company. Over the years, MenZshed Whitianga has

Leigh Hopper, Jeff Riddle, Glenn Schachwe, Debbie.

quietly become one of the area’s real treasures. Its members have donated projects to the local schools, repaired equipment for community groups, crafted toys for children in need, always giving their time and expertise freely. But the heart of the ‘Shed’ isn’t really the tools or the timber. It’s the people. For many members, the MenZhed is somewhere to go, something to look forward to, and a group of mates who notice if you haven’t turned up. Friendships form over a cup of tea as easily as over a project, and con-

versations range from how to fix a stubborn hinge to life’s bigger ups and downs. Retirement, a change in health or the loss of a partner can leave people feeling a little adrift. The routines and workmates that once filled the week fall away, and it’s easy to lose that sense of purpose and connection. The ‘Shed’ offers a welcoming spot where experience is valued, everyone has something to give, and no one has to go it alone. That’s exactly what we strive for at The Moorings. A retirement vil-

lage is so much more than a place to live. It’s a community where neighbours become friends, where there’s always a familiar face over morning tea, and where people can keep doing the things they love among others who care. Like the Shed, we believe that later life should be full of friendship, laughter and a real sense of belonging. Both of us are, in our own way, about the same thing: making sure people feel at home, feel useful and feel part of something. That’s why this partnership feels

like such a natural fit. Through our sponsorship, The Moorings will support the Shed’s ongoing work in the community, helping keep the doors open, the tools turning, and the kettle on for everyone who walks through. We're really looking forward to being part of the MenZshed story. They do so much for our community, not just through the work they do, but through the friendships they build. We're proud to be standing alongside them.” It's a partnership built on Continued on page 11

NEW ZEALANDERS FIRST We are the only nationalist party. We are the only socially conservative party. We are patriots of our country, New Zealand. We are the voice of common sense.

Vincent Andersen

GET IN TOUCH: vincent.andersen@nzfirst.nz Authorised by Vincent Andersen, vincent.andersen@nzfirst.nz

10 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026

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Continued from page 10

Poignant memorial project at MenZshed Fallan McLean is remembered.

something simple but important: strong communities are made by people who show up, get involved and look out for each other. And at MenZshed Whitianga, there's certainly no shortage of those. Want to see what the team is up to? Pop into Menz Shed Whitianga at 18 Abrahamson Drive on Tuesdays or Thursdays, between 9am and 12 noon. Visitors are always welcome. Debbie is Sales Manager at The Moorings Village. mooringsvillage.co.nz 91 Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga. M: 021 972 591

Jeff Riddle is a skilled and builder with a life time of professional experience – community buildings, homes, major renovations. Now he is semi- retired, though as busy as ever and has been instrumental in the construction of the new Whitianga MenZshed near the airport. He can also turn his hand at furniture and this special project in the photo came as a request to Glen Schache, President of the Menzshed a few weeks ago. This beautiful memorial bench seat was made in memory of Fallan McLean from a young girl who tragically drowned many years ago. She was a teenager and a beautiful girl in stature and nature. Fallan was swept away when the vehicle she was in tried to cross the swollen Rangihau River. Fallan was the daughter of Sandra McLean.

Jeff Ridde with the special chair.

Sandra brought the her daughter’s glory box – a beautiful wooden chest – to the MenZshed to see if they could make something from it. Of course they could. Using the lid of the chest and other timbers, Jeff constructed this beauti-

ful memorial seat. Sandra and her sister, Julie Johnson have planned for the seat to be near the Pohutukawas at Wharekaho where the memories and the ashes of many in their family who have passed on, lie. “It will be a seat for rest-

ing and remembering,” says Julie.” Fallen is with her grandparents and those who have gone before. We all miss her but the making of this seat has been healing for everyone who knew her. It means great deal to my sister.”

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Your Your trusted trusted Your trusted local local team team local since since team 2010 2010 since 2010 07 07 866 866 5589 5589 07 866 5589 info@nzmoveit.co.nz info@nzmoveit.co.nz nzmoveit .co.nz .co.nz .co.nzinfo@nzmoveit.co.nz www. www.nzmoveit www. nzmoveit The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026 | 11

ADVERTORIAL

Open all weekend – Kitchen Dynamics spreads to Coromandel

olin and Ange Drummond have been in the creating kitchens and cabinet industry for more than 28 years. Their company, Kitchen Dynamics, has established an office in the heart of Whitianga township in Monk Street and this coming Labour weekend the doors are open all three days. “Our cabinetry is manufactured in our own workshop and over the years we’ve worked with homeowners throughout Auckland, Waikato and increasingly across the Coromandel,” says Colin. “Opening in Whitianga felt like a natural progression for us. We were already working with clients in this area, and having a local showroom gives people somewhere they can come in, meet us, look at finishes and materials, and talk through their ideas face to face.

PEOPLE SPEND A LOT OF TIME IN THEIR KITCHENS We are listening for how they actually live. A new kitchen isn’t just about choosing colours and a benchtop. We want to know who uses the kitchen, how they cook, whether they entertain, what frustrates them about their existing kitchen,

With our plans and 3D renders, clients can see different layouts and finishes before anything is manufactured, which makes it much easier to make those decisions with confidence.

The Monk Street studio; Ange and Colin Drummond.

what they need more storage for, where would they like the coffee machine or air fryer to end up or even the school bags. Quite often clients know how they want their new kitchen to feel, or they know what isn't working now, but they don't necessarily know what the solution is. That’s where good design comes in. CREATING OR REDESIGNING A KITCHEN HAS CHANGED Kitchens have become much more personalized. People are thinking much more about how the space fits their lifestyle. Peo-

12 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026

ple want drawers, clever internal storage and designated places for the appliances they use every day rather than simply having more cupboards. We’re also seeing kitchens become part of a much bigger living space, so there’s more consideration given to how the cabinetry looks from the lounge or dining area. Materials, textures and finishes matter, and people are more confident about adding personality rather than automatically choosing what happens to be fashionable. Technology has also helped.

TAKING INTO CONSIDERATION, PLACING ALL THE APPLIANCES We need to think about plumbing, power, ventilation, appliance specifications and clearances, but also how everything works together once someone is actually using the kitchen. For example, you don’t want the dishwasher door interfering with another cupboard, the fridge opening into a main walkway. We also consider things such as where someone will naturally put something down after taking it from the oven or fridge. OUR POINT OF DIFFERENCE For us, it’s the combination of experience, planning and having control of the process from design through to complete installation. Clients receive detailed plans

and 3D renders, so they can really understand what they are getting and make changes before we start building. The cabinetry is then manufactured by our own team, assembled and quality checked before it leaves the factory, and installed by our own installers. We stay involved and follow up after installation. We’re members of the NKBA and Registered Master Joiners, but ultimately our reputation comes down to doing the job properly, communicating well, producing cabinetry that is made to last and that in the end, our clients love and enjoy using their kitchen. WE ARE ON THE COROMANDEL From our Whitianga showroom base, we are working across the Coromandel and surrounding areas. Having the showroom In Monk Street, means Coromandel clients now have a local place to start the conversation, while having all the backing of our design and manufacturing team. Colin and Ange Drummond and the Kitchen Dynamics team invite you to visit 1 Monk Street.

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ADVERTORIAL

Entrusted together with people’s most valuable asset – their home

elinda Sammons and Kylie Pullen are a well-known and successful Real Estate partnership with Bayleys Whitianga. They have very different personalities, but both have the same get up and go work ethic and both want to get to the same place. People relate to both of them very easily. Between them they have decades of experience and local knowledge, and are known for honesty, energy, and outstanding results. The Informer asked Kylie and Belinda for an interview on their long-standing business partnership. They were glad to oblige, and we met in one of their listings on the Whitianga Waterways at 36 Arawa Lane. Q: DO YOU WORK SEPARATELY OR ALWAYS TOGETHER? Belinda – “If one of us is away or busy on another job, we know the other will be able to step in. We are right and left, and we will know soon enough what’s going on. We have excellent communication methods and reporting which work very well for us and our clients.” Kylie – “Our voice memo system works so efficiently with the help of our support staff people. It is

Kylie Pullen and Belinda Sammons.

important that a memo doesn’t get missed. “One of our shared goals is: ‘We commit to giving our clients the highest level of service’. So, we had to work out a system that matched our goal.” Belinda – “This is our career – not a hobby. So, it is a full-time goal for our clients, it means everything needs to run smoothly for them. We understand that people live busy lives and want to give them an experience where they know the very best is being done for them and that they are informed as to what is happening.” Both Kylie and Belinda work on a roster of 12 days on and two days off. “We really enjoy those two days off,” smiled Kylie.

Q: HOW DOES REAL ESTATE WORK BALANCE PAN OUT? Kylie – “I started in real estate when my children were 10 and 5 years – the youngest had just started school. That worked for me. Now they are 26 and 21. My husband is very supportive.” For Belinda, it is a blended family. “Our children are 18, 16, 13 and 11. My working weekend is when the children are with their other family. We are committed to supporting each other and it works well.” WHAT BROUGHT YOU TO THE COROMANDEL – AND WHITIANGA? Kylie – “We have been here 22 years. Fishing brought us. It was so good to come to blue water

and white sand. Our first child prompted the move. She grew up here and now she is a lawyer.” Belinda – “Mum and Dad moved here in 1987. They were farming between Matarangi and Whangapoua – 900 acres with sheep, then beef, then dairying. I went to Te Rerenga School. At 19, I studied travel and tourism and got a part-time job in Real Estate. For two years I worked in administration and started selling when I was 21. I wasn’t sure that clients would relate to me, but youthfulness and drive became my point of difference."

Q: HOW DID YOUR PARTNERSHIP START? Kylie – “Fifteen years ago, Mary Walker owned the Bayleys franchise and the rule was that two agents needed to be together for an auction. At that stage, with children and the decision to make this a full-time vocation, it was all-time consuming. We started choosing each other as our partner for the auction. You would say that our working together and commitment to be partners evolved.” Belinda – “Kylie has got my back. Kylie – “And Belinda has mine. We are enjoying 14 years of full partnership.”

Q: DESCRIBE YOUR GENERAL ATTITUDE AS BUSINESS PARTNERS ON A DAILY BASIS Four things: • We are good humans and we want to treat people in a respectful and sincere way; and it works. • We both love our families • We appreciate and rely on our back-up team – Lauryn is our lead, with Dani and Cristine supporting. Belinda – “Our back-up team is very important in our daily ability to work well for our clients and allows us to have time with our families.” • We love the Coromandel. Kylie – “We have a very rare thing – a successful, and very good relationship. We are good friends. We are very different, but we have a warm and mutual understanding of each other.” Kylie – “If I had one phone call to make – it would be to Belinda, as it's the only number I know (she says as she laughs).” Belinda – “You have to love people. We are entrusted with their most valuable asset. We treat them the way we would always hope to be treated and have built some lifelong friendships.” We can only say ‘Well done and Keep on’ to both women.

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The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026 | 13

Pauanui Pink Walk – ‘in the pink’

BY JODIE HURST

n Saturday 3 October Pauanui played host to the 4th Pauanui Pink Walk. As in previous years the event raised valuable funds for Breast Cancer Foundation NZ but this year also saw 2 local community groups benefiting from funds raised. Pauanui Pre School’s Community Garden and the Tairua River Trail are both grateful and well deserved recipients. The pink theme started taking shape early on Saturday morn-

ing as pink balloon garlands were strung up throughout the village and the local line dancing crew, The Salty Steppers, performed a few of their wellhoned routines getting their step count up well before the walk started! With men, women, children and even the family pooch getting involved the 5.5km Pauanui Pink Walk is really becoming a family affair and this year saw 175 participants take to the start line donned in their finest pink clothing and accessories. Participants ended the walk

at the Pauanui Club where they were able to enjoy some community camaraderie while eagerly waiting to see if they were lucky enough to win one of the many spot prizes on offer. The fun did not end after the prize giving and plenty of pink could still be seen around town while pink drink and food offerings were enjoyed, competitions and raffles were entered and the good vibes continued. This years entries combined with local businesses ‘sub fundraising’ saw just over $7.5k raised which will be split

Scott Simpson National Party Candidate for Coromandel

between the three organisations. Thank you to all the businesses for your support of the event, thank you to those that volunteered their time to make the event happen, and of course thank you to all those that participated on the day and were a part of making this a super fun event. To see all photos from the day and to keep up to date with developments for 2027 be sure to follow ‘Pauanui Pink Walk’ on Facebook. On behalf of organising committee.

HOT OFF THE PRESS

COROMANDEL SUMMER MAG IS OUT NOW Motel and Airbnb and business owners are invited to come to our office and get their copies of the Summer Magazine The Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga

GIORMA ALLEMANO

MORTGAGE BROKER & INVESTMENT ADVISOR WHITIANGA

giorma@allemanofinance.co.nz 021 035 1213 +6421035 1213 www.allemanofinance.co.nz Authorised by S. Simpson, scott.simpson@national.org.nz

14 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026

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A way to honour Sir Keith Park and “The Few” BY GEOFF FURKETT

memorial to Air Chief Marshal Sir Keith Park was inaugurated in his home town of Thames, New Zealand, September 2025 at the Annual Battle of Britain Commemorations. A magnificent bronze statue of Sir Keith Park is the central focus of this memorial as you can see in the photo. It is visited by many and stands at the entry of the Thames Airfield now called The Sir Ketih Park Memorial Airfield. This is very fitting as Sir Keith grew up in Thames. This unflinching, strategist and fighter pilot whose leadership won the Battle of Britain (World War Two) was a Thames lad. I am honoured to be the coordinator of this work. A Tablet Memorial: This year we are working to see the erection of three black granite tablets to complement that Memorial, on which will be recorded the names of the New Zealand Airmen recognized as being of Sir Winson Churchill’s”The few”. This initiative remains in a fundraised state before a commitment to proceed can be made: about $35,000 is required. An updated concept visual is attached. Also, for the recent Battle of Britain in September, a mock-up of this planned ‘Tablet Memorial’ has been

Above: Some of the Thames Air Training Corps present at the commemorations, September 2026. Below: Scott Simpson MP with Geoff Furkett at 2026 Battle of Britain Commemorations – Sir Keith Park statue in the background.

temporarily erected at the Sir Keith Park Memorial to give a more realistic impression as to how this significant memorial to the New Zealand Airmen of “The Few” will look. To the best of my knowledge, there is no other such recognition of the service that these brave souls made, anywhere else n New Zealand. We need your help: There are many who would have had family , relatives, or acquaintances who flew in the battle of Britain. It is to this group in particular that I appeal for financial support for the Tablet Memorial. The SKPMA Inc. Banking details are as follows: Bank Account Name: Sir Keith Park Memorial Airfield Inc.

Bank Account No. 38 9022 0151185 00. Charitable Registration: CC60152 Contact Geoff.furkett@xtra. co.nz 021 833 044

Concept of the Tablet memorial which will be around Sir Keith Park bronze statue.

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Digital Decoder

Letters

By Agent EJ

to the Editor

AI slop won’t replace expertise

Letters to the Editor enable members of the public to express an opinion, about an article or a topic of interest/concern. Please keep them to 200 words or less.They do not reflect the view of the Editor who reserves the right to edit and decide what is published.

NON-SENSICAL REPLY Dear Editor, I wondered if you may want this for your Letters to the Editor section. As far as I'm concerned, their answer below is a lot of gobbledegook to justify why this charge exists. Pease see my request and then the response I received. Copy of letter to Waikato Regional Council “I have a question please. On the Rates Assessment Notice accompanying the invoice, it itemises the break-down of the rates. On the reverse of this page is a heading 'Transport', it explains that "this rate funds part of the costs of public transport services across the region". Yet on the front page it is stated under 'Transport' that this is 'unserviced'. I am interested to know why this is being charged when it appears there is no service being provided. Thank you” Reply from Waikato Regional Council

“The transport rate contributes to the funding of public transport services across the Waikato region. The "serviced" and "unserviced" classifications do not indicate whether you are charged the rate, but rather the level of public transport service available within your area. Properties located in areas where public transport services are available are charged the "serviced" transport rate, while properties in areas without access to a local public transport service are charged the lower "unserviced" transport rate. Even though your property is classified as "unserviced", a transport rate is still applied as public transport provides regional benefits, including supporting economic activity, reducing traffic congestion, and contributing to environmental outcomes across the wider Waikato region.” Nga mihi, Tallulah, Ratepayer Whitianga

sing AI to generate a design doesn't make you a designer, just as generating text doesn't automatically make you a writer. You can get it to build a website, but that doesn't mean you understand the code underneath. Like any tool, it relies on human input, and the results depend on the skill and vision of whoever writes the prompt. Plenty of apps now let people skip the steep, time-consuming learning curve. But they also skip the knowledge that normally comes from trial, error, and pure grit. We've been here before. When desktop publishing software arrived, people raved about how efficiently anyone could now produce designs. What we actually got was a flood of badly designed flyers and newsletters, made by people with no eye for design, much of it not worth printing. New Zealand has a lot to lose here. Many of our creatives are small businesses that depend on clients hiring them for their skills. The Creative Store's 2026 salary survey says AI has flattened junior and content-focused roles, while demand is growing for senior people who are strong thinkers and storytellers. That's a problem, because junior roles are how seniors get made in the first place. The effects show up in our feeds: clumsy food menus and event post-

ers that leave locals wondering why they should bother turning up. Yes, art is subjective, but good work makes you FEEL something. Expertise isn't just polish, either. A Voyager Broadband AI-generated ad was pulled after critics said it reinforced damaging stereotypes of Māori and Pasifika people and lacked cultural due diligence. A trained local designer would likely have flagged that before it went live. We see it in the current election campaigns, it does feel suspicious that many of the parties that are flush with donations could afford to pay local creatives but choose not to.

Something else concerns me. The spread of low-quality images and generic captions has started to normalise them. Despite protests from artists, we now broadly accept them as part of everyday life, and that lowers the bar for everyone. We can't tell people to stop using these tools. It's too late for that. But using them in a discerning, meaningful way still takes skill and talent. If you're a business owner weighing up a quick AI poster against a local designer, remember what you're really paying for: someone who knows what works, what offends, and what people will actually feel.

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Travel with Sarah Jane

The Taranaki Garden Festival

aranaki is usually introduced with one dramatic image: the near-perfect cone of Taranaki Maunga rising above the surrounding countryside. But spend a little longer in the region and another landscape begins to compete for attention. Not one or two carefully manicured showpieces, but a network of public and private gardens shaped by volcanic soils, generous rainfall and a climate that seems particularly determined to make things grow. For garden lovers, Taranaki is not simply somewhere to stop on the way around the North Island. It is a destination. The best time to see that enthusiasm at full volume is during the annual Taranaki Garden Festival, usually held in late October and early November, when private gardens normally hidden behind hedges and farm gates open to visitors. For a few days, garden maps replace road maps and visitors discover that some of the region’s most memorable attractions are found at the end of rural driveways. Yet Taranaki’s garden story does not begin or end with the festival.

licly accessible. The house, river, slopes and garden rooms work together, creating one of those places where the temptation is to keep walking just to see what is around the next corner.

Tūpare.

Photo: Taranaki Regional Council.

Three of the region’s bestknown public gardens can be visited throughout the year and, remarkably, admission is free.

PUKEITI – THE MOST DRAMATIC Set against the rainforest on the slopes of Taranaki Maunga, it is internationally known for its rhododendron collection. In spring, the gardens become a mass of colour, but the setting is just as important as the flowers. Paths disappear beneath mature trees, ferns crowd the edges and the surrounding native forest makes Pukeiti feel less like a formal garden and more like a

carefully managed extension of the bush. This is a place for wandering, looking closely and occasionally realising you have spent far too long photographing the same rhododendron from different angles. TŪPARE - CLOSER TO NEW PLYMOUTH, VERY DIFFERENT The garden surrounds an Arts and Crafts-style homestead above the Waiwhakaiho River, with terraces, lawns, mature trees and pathways stepping down towards the water. It has the feel of a private country garden even though it is pub-

CREW NEEDED NOW FOR NEW VESSEL ARRIVING SOON!

HOLLARD GARDENS FURTHER SOUTH NEAR KAPONGA The garden began as the work of Bernie and Rose Hollard, who spent decades developing what became an important collection of plants. Today it remains a particularly good example of a garden created through persistence, curiosity and love rather than grand landscaping. It feels personal. That quality is part of what makes the wider Taranaki garden scene so appealing. The region’s gardens are not identical. Some are formal. Some are exuberant. Some are rural. Some are contemporary. Others look as though the plants have been negotiating among themselves for years about exactly where they would prefer to grow. During the festival, that diversity becomes the attraction. Private gardens are open across the region, giving visitors a rare opportunity to see how peo-

ple garden beneath a mountain, beside the coast and on productive farmland. For non-gardeners, the festival provides an unusual way to explore Taranaki. The gardens invite visitors along rural roads, through small towns and into parts of the region they might otherwise drive past. A garden visit may lead to a café in a small town, a coastal detour, a roadside produce stall or an unexpected view of the maunga. And New Plymouth itself adds another layer. PUKEKURA PARK - IN THE HEART OF THE CITY This offers lakes, bush, fernery, bridges and walking paths across 52 hectares. It is not merely an ornamental city park; it is a park locals use. The best public spaces do not feel created only for visitors. They feel embedded in everyday life. Taranaki’s gardens are beautiful, but they also reveal the region’s fertile soil, a mild climate, long-established gardening traditions and a willingness to open the gate and share the result. Come for the mountain, but allow enough time for the gardens.

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The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026 | 17

Mike’s Minutes

‘Worth Watching Online’ JUST KEY IN THE TITLE AS WRITTEN TO FIND THE VIDEO IN YOUTUBE (best viewed on a flat screen TV) 1) Inside Auckland’s $500M Eden Park Stadium Tech Upgrade Eden Park Stadium is undergoing a massive $500 million engineering transformation known as the 2.1 Masterplan. Key technical features include a retractable ETFE roof, an in house hotel and mobile seating tracks. 2) China’s New Trackless Train Could Change How Cities Move Forever. This video looks at the virtual-rail train built be CRRC (China Railway Rollingstock Corporation) builder of China’s Hi-Speed Trains. Australian Associated Press claims Trackless Trams cost one fifth the cost of Light-Rail which is refuted by other sources. 3) 95% Still Use ChatGPT Wrong-6 Simple Tricks That Change Everything. It’s said the most people still use ChatGPT the wrong way and that’s exactly why their results are weak. In this video you’ll learn 6 simple tricks to write better prompts to get Smarter answers. Enjoy watching, MIke

Ray’s Report #41

The Gangs in New Zealand

ast week the New Zealand gang situation was dragged squarely into the public arena. Law and order is often among the top three concerns for voters, and the general election is weeks away. Chapeau to Green MP Hūhana Lyndon and the Green candidate for Māngere, Michel Mulipola, who were joined by Te Pāti Māori MPs Oriini Kaipara (Tāmaki Makaurau, Auckland) and Hana-Rāwhiti Maipi-Clarke (Hauraki-Waikato), both Māori seats, for providing this generous and, some would say, foolish public service in meeting with senior Mongrel Mob members in a blaze of publicity. The health and welfare hui was held with senior members of the Mongrel Mob in what appears to be one of their gang pads. Mongrel Mob member Harry Tam, who only pops up at election time, captioned photographs on his social media pages describing the event as a ‘whānau, health and wellbeing election hui’. Let’s examine this in the context of this year’s general election. Each of the mainstream parties has conservative and predictable crime-reduction policies.

18 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026

If you talk with Māori leaders about Māori crime rates (and they are way too high), they rightly ask, ‘What Māori crime are you talking about?’ When the very high proportion of Māori in gangs is raised, they understand this: if Māori gang members are removed from the equation, Māori crime statistics start to get much closer to those of their Pākehā, Pasifika and Asian cousins. Crime in New Zealand comes at a huge social and financial cost. These costs are in the billions of dollars, and the social, emotional and physical harm is immeasurable. Gang members, be they organised crime, disorganised crime or youth crime offenders,

are a massive contributor to these crime statistics. Often the victims of gang members’ crimes are their own whānau. Since the 501s began being deported from Australia, they have brought with them a much higher level of professionalism in organised crime and a great deal more violence. Before this, our local gangs had a good deal of inter-gang violence, but the 501s, with their Australian-named and -themed gangs, have taken intergang warfare to much greater levels. There has been a virtual arms race amongst the gangs to ensure patch protection and control of the drug trade, extortion, serious fraud and crimes of violence. In the reporting made available, there was no mention of meeting with gang members’ victims and their families, or indeed with gang members’ families who are desperate to exit the gang life. Instead of posturing and strutting about a gang pad and expressing direct support for professional criminals, where was the genuine concern and support for victims of crime? The Te Pāti Māori leader’s wife came out strongly in defence of her party members’ gang inter-

actions, stating that gang members were whānau. The only reason gang members would be entertaining politicians is to determine what’s in it for the gangs. Be it financial assistance or a serious tweak of the anti-gang laws, they only ever act in their own self-interest. The moment the money and political support dry up, they are back to being their own self-proclaimed outlaws and 1%ers. Their loyalty is only to themselves. In the current Government’s first term, much was made of its gang patch ban. There was a great deal of scepticism as to whether it would work and whether Police would be able to enforce it. The gang patch ban has been a success despite its critics and naysayers. And why should select members of our community be able to don gang regalia, often Nazi-themed clothing and symbols, with the aim of intimidating the community and boosting their own self-esteem? The Greens and Te Pāti Māori have made the gangs an election issue. There are no sensible, workable solutions in their policies, and by jumping into bed with the Mongrel Mob they have done themselves no favours.

www.theinformer.co.nz

Open Labour Weekend Paula

You’re invited... FRIDAY 23 TO 26 OCTOBER 10.30AM - 4.00PM

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The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026 | 19

Kia K ia o ora ra Whitianga! W hitia hiti anga!

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WHANGAMATA EVENTS THIS WEEKEND

Labour Weekend in Whangamata

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Don’t sell yourself short. Ask for the Arizto Advantage. • Lowest commission in town, save you thousands of dollars on your sale. BY SHAUN FAY

t certainly is Labour weekend. Seems all those baches that have been quiet and locked up for the winter suddenly come alive. Lawn Mowers, weed eaters, water blasters, trips to the dump, it’s chaos and noisy but it’s a good noise as we all start to feel the buzz of people and commerce as the Coromandel gears up for the summer. Of course, Labour Weekend also brings it’s share of events so if you’re here to clean up the place don’t forget all work and no play makes for a dull Janice. Let’s take a look at some things happening in Whangamata. TENNIS AND SQUASH There’s a major doubles tournament on at the Tennis and Squash club. That’s on from the 23rd to the 25th. If you’re not playing pop along anyway as there will be top action from some of the best in the country and the bar and balcony will be open for ringside seats to the action.

COMEDY Comedy is on Saturday at Edisons the old cinema here in town. Ben Hurley, Tom

Sainsbury and Hoani Hotene. Doors open at 7 and it’s just $55 to see some of our funniest stand ups. Tickets from edisonsevents.co.nz BOOKS The Lions roll out their big book sale at the fire station. Saturday, 24/10. 8 to 2. Sausage Sizzle. Great fund raiser and who doesn’t need some books for the bach over summer? Talking of snarlers the local butcher. Meat At The Beach has just picked up a major award for their real beef sausage. Pop in and grab yourself a half dozen. ART Have a Ball. This is a combination of bowls and art. The bowling club had some old bowls and rather than throw them away they sold them to budding artists. The locals have taken to these like surfers to a swell. These are all on display Sunday the 25th from 11am to 5pm. at The Bowling Club. You can buy them, judge them, admire them. All funds raised go to mens health. Plenty more to see and do or just a walk along one New Zealand’s favourite beaches. See you in Whangamata.

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The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026 | 21

TCDC to revisit amalgamation plans Councillors say it’s time to explore all options. BY GEOFFREY ROBINSON

he future structure of local government for the Coromandel is back on the TCDC Council agenda. As a result, local democracy may get an eleventh-hour reprieve. And elected Council members – together with the communities they represent – may get a second chance to evaluate all options before embarking on any major change to local democratic governance. At its regular meeting on October 29, the Council will consider a proposal from elected members seeking an orderly termination of TCDC’s memorandum of understanding with neighbouring Matamata-Piako and Hauraki district councils that guided the district’s rushed Head Start amalgamation proposal to create a “Waihou-Piako-Coromandel” local authority. The MOU termination proposal follows government’s recent announcement postponing decisions on all amalgamation plans submitted by local councils in August. That surprise announcement has thrown amalgamation planning across New Zealand into disarray, with questions rife as to whether, how, and when local government reorganisation might proceed and under what legislative framework. The TCDC proposal to seek an end to the three-way MOU was

put forward Monday in a Notice of Motion under council standing orders by four elected Council members who will be seeking the support of Mayor Peter Revell and fellow councillors. While the mayor originally sought to “tick all the boxes” of the government’s May policy directive for council simplification and to minimise the potential risks from failing to do so, the political context of local government reform efforts has significantly changed. For Coromandel communities, leaving the three-council MOU intact and the sketchily defined amalgamation plan on the table in Wellington now appears to represent the greater uncertainty and longterm risk. The case for terminating the MOU is strong. As stated by TCDC’s own Head Start consultants, and as outlined in the formal 24-page unitary council proposal submitted to the government in August, the Waihou-Piako amalgamation plan involves substantial tradeoffs and inherent risks, not the least of which is the lack of any in-depth financial modeling and analysis to support the decision to merge. A projected 10-year financial break-even timeline is just best estimate. Fundamental decisions on representation, council structure, local decision-making powers remain unsettled. And a long list of potential downsides, from

loss of local knowledge to failure of projected savings to materialise, have been flagged. TAKING BACK CONTROL AND REDUCING RISKS With local government reorganisation delayed and no legislative framework to guide it, taking back control of the process and stepping back from the Head Start proposal now appears to offer the greater protection – first by eliminating the risk that crucial decisions could be made by default in Wellington or otherwise be forced upon Thames-Coromandel District by its merger partners in negotiation. The most fundamental risk from a merger agreement

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GOVERNMENT NOW SAYS IT’S TIME TO TEST IDEAS As for the nuts and bolts of council business, ending the restrictive MOU would also free TCDC to restart negotiations with other neighbouring councils on a range of issues, including joint service provision opportunities and potential resource management agreements. Local Government Min Simon Watts, in his September update to local mayors and council CEOs, said, “We encourage councils to use this time to continue to engage with your neighbors, test ideas, share any lessons learned, and build off the excellent work you have already done.” Continued on page 23

Issue 1232 – Quiz 25

1) Who demonstrated the first hot-air balloon

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tary councils may deliver the best outcomes. That model has worked well in Marlboroough, Tasman, Nelson and Gisborne for decades. As for the Coromandel, the standalone unitary council model is a structure that has historically attracted strong support and remains a natural option. (Ask any hourly weather forecast listener if they recognise “The Coromandel”) But if a merger with one or more neighbouring councils can provide the greatest benefits in terms of local control and affordability, that proposal can always be mooted instead – including once again with HDC and MPDC.

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made in haste – with little hard data to support it and no hard evidence of guaranteed long-term benefits – is that Coromandel communities could be bound to a costly, problem-prone governance model for generations. Hitting the restart button, as advocated by those reopening the amalgamation discussion, would free up TCDC and the community to consider all potential structural options for streamlining and strengthening representative Coromandel government. The 12-week, headlong winter rush to meet a government deadline failed to provide that opportunity, with councils across New Zealand protesting the obviously unrealistic timeline. Combining the functions of regional and district councils in new unitary councils has support across the political spectrum and is likely to underpin local government reform eventually. But amalgamation of existing districts into larger unitary council units is not a given and not the best option for every district. In areas that comprise natural communities of common interests, as in Wellington City or rural King Country, council mergers will make sense. For other districts, where unique or distinctive geographic and economic factors prevail and finances allow, smaller standalone uni-

3) Which is the southern-most city in NZ? 4) What art technique did Ray Hamon use? 5) What is the postcode for Whitianga?

Authorised by Miriam Ross, greens.org.nz

PARTY

VOTE coromandel@greens.org.nz @nzgreenparty

Tony Jump (aka Jumpy) 027 251 1410 ironworks2112@gmail.com 22 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026

www.theinformer.co.nz

Continued from page 22 As the MOU currently stands, TCDC’s hands are tied and engagement is throttled. Release from the three-council MOU and withdrawal of the merger proposal with Hauraki and Matamata-Piako would give TCDC leaders an opportunity to open meaningful community discussion on council structure and representation. All options can be explored – none should be foreclosed. There has been strong community interest since the last local body elections in protecting local voices and strengthening local decision-making. Formal community consultation with residents, rateholders, and other stakeholders for potential change of such significance should be expected – and would likely yield the best outcomes. And before any future proposal for a standalone or amalgamated unitary council progesses, it should face detailed, independent financial analysis and thorough risk assessment, which the rushed Head

Start merger plan did not. Coromandel residents and ratepayers deserve no less. But first, the political process of local government reform will need to sort itself out in Wellington, and Thames-Coromandel District councillors will need to give themselves breathing space and time. Local council reorganisation can be progressed – this time not as a burden or under duress, but as a real opportunity for meaningful, substantive, positive change. Putting the amalgamation discussion back on the October 29 Council agenda were South Eastern Ward Cr Alison Smith, Mercury Bay Ward Crs Tony Brljevich and Flemming Rasmussen, and Coromandel-Colville Ward Cr Rob Ashman. Community board chairs will have the opportunity to share their views as non-voting Council meeting attendees. Termination of the three-way MOU requires agreement by all three mayors or councils – no individual council may unilaterally withdraw.

Better Now

You work hard. Your pay should go further. Labour will cut everyday costs.

The Kuaotunu Domain Board draws to a close The Kuaotunu Domain Board held its final meeting last week with the main business being the winding up of Kuaotunu’s oldest committee. The Board was established in 1904 with its first meeting held at Ritchie’s Hall near where the Kuaotunu Fire Brigade is now. Its brief was to manage a parcel of land 500m south of the village now on State Highway 25 which was the site of the public gold stamper battery at the time. This eventually became the home of the Kuaotunu cricket club and subsequently Kuaotunu’s first tennis courts and sports field before finally being used by TCDC in the 1980’s for a storage shed. 1971 saw the addition of the old Kuaotunu soccer field on what is now known as the Blackjack Reserve to the Board’s management brief, with TCDC erecting the toilet block by the beach in 1972 on this land at the foot of Blackjack itself. About a decade later, after a great deal of lobbying by the Board and others, a third and final parcel of land opposite Davis Road was saved from future housing development zoning and added to the portfolio. This is now the home of the new tennis courts, soccer field, and toilet block. Aided by generous public donations, Board investments and income from grazing leases, the Board used its funds and voluntary labour to construct a multipurpose recreation slab used for tennis and

other ball sports and also upgraded water supplies and drainage for the various reserves. Most Domain Boards around New Zealand were disestablished in the 1980’s but the Kuaotunu one continued to be active due to uncertainties over the outcome of the local Waitangi Treaty Settlement process. Consequently, the Board continued to operate with its funds being used to upgrade community reserve facilities. Major expenditures included conversion of part of the Davis Road toilet block to incorporate a new home for the Kuaotunu Library and the establishment of the pétanque court and BBQ on this very well used

reserve. TCDC facilitated and helped with funding for many of these projects which enabled their completion in a timely manner. With the recent death of long standing Board member Dugald Hoyland and progress in the Treaty process, it was decided the time had come to wind up the Domain Board. In recognition of TCDC’s assistance and ongoing maintenance and support over many decades the Domain board unanimously moved to donate its remaining funds of approximately $30,000 to TCDC with the intention that this be used primarily for the maintenance of the recreation slab and tennis courts in the future.

Better Future

Your hard work should get you somewhere. Labour will help you get ahead. Backing Kiwi businesses with a new government investment fund

Three free GP visits a year for everyone with a new Medicard

Backing apprentices with hiring incentives and $1,000 for tools and kit

Weekly public transport capped at $20 in Auckland, Wellington and Christchurch, and $10 everywhere else

Backing small business with new laws to get them paid on time and support to invest

Free prescriptions and maternity scans

Backing the next generation with good jobs and opportunities to build a future here at home

Solar power with no upfront cost to lower power bills

Spend less on the basics. Keep more for everything else.

The Historic Final Meeting L to R: Birgit Chilwell (Treasurer), Ian Goodall, Dave Wight (Chairman), Alastair Brickell, Fred Bonkovich.

Good jobs and incomes so your kids can build a future here at home.

Fully costed. Fully paid for. See the detail at labour.org.nz

Glen Bennett for Coromandel

glen.bennett@labour.org.nz labour.org.nz/glenbennett /glenbennettlabour /glen.bennettmp @gbennettmp Authorised by Rob Salmond, 2 Gilmer Terrace, Wellington.

www.theinformer.co.nz

The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026 | 23

20 October 2026

Storm repairs continue at Cooks Beach Work continues to repair storm damage to the beach access at Iti Drive, Cooks Beach. This means this access will remain closed while our teams install temporary protection measures along the seawall and reserve. During this time, people can access the beach via newly installed stairs between Hicks Place and Oyster Drive.

Protecting our public spaces

In the long-term, we plan to rebuild the rock protection and beach access and improve the stormwater outlet. Construction is expected to begin in early 2027.

PREPARE NOW FOR AN EL NIÑO SUMMER

NEW WHITIANGA TRANSFER STATION TO OPEN

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 Our new Whitianga Refuse and Recycling Transfer Station will open to the community next month.

On tank water?

There's an official opening ceremony for the new facility on Moewai Road today. We need a few more days to get it ready for public users. We'll let you know when it's ready to welcome you

Check it now.

The facility will provide a safer, more efficient experience for customers while supporting our shared goal of reducing waste and increasing resource recovery.

Clear long grass, tidy up around buildings and reduce fire risk.

Check in on neighbours.

Stay in the know.

Keep an eye on weather, fire and Council updates.

www.tcdc.govt.nz/elnino

It replaces the former transfer station on the South Highway and offers more space and capacity to meet the needs and demands of Whitianga’s growing population. Space has also been created for Wāhi Tukurua – Mercury Bay Resource Recovery Centre to allow for its potential operation. Our Council would like to thank the Mercury Bay community for its patience and especially the Ministry for Cities, Environment, Regions and Transport which granted $6 million from its Waste Minimisation Fund towards the cost of constructing the $11.5m facility. This helped ensure the project went ahead and helped reduce the costs on our ratepayers. Dogs allowed off lead

ing is on Wednesday 21 October f rd meet rom 9 a o B The next Me a. www.tcdc.govt.nz/mee rcury Bay Community tings am , Whitiang t S k n Mo At our serv ice centre, 10

TCDCOCT2026

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24 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026

Recent incidents include stolen kōwhai trees in Ōpito Bay and plants dug up from Ōmahu Cemetery. Council is urging residents to report suspicious activity to police.

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.

Take steps now to help protect your families, properties and communities.

Thieves have stolen trees and shrubs from parks, reserves and cemeteries across the district, damaging public spaces and costing ratepayers money.

Please keep your dog under control

www.tcdc.govt.nz customer.services@tcdc.govt.nz Private Bag, 515 Mackay St, Thames Phone: 07 868 0200

Dogs on lead At all times $300 fine applies

What’s happening over Labour Weekend? KERBSIDE COLLECTIONS AND TRANSFER STATIONS

Rubbish and food waste collections are a day later following Labour Day, Monday 26 October. Check your local kerbside schedule at www.tcdc.govt.nz/bindays Our seven refuse and recycling transfer stations are open daily, including Labour Day Monday. For more info, visit www.tcdc.govt.nz/rts

OFFICES | DISTRICT LIBRARIES

Our offices (and AA services) and district libraries are closed on Monday 26 October. You can still contact us 24/7 at 07 868 0200, customer.services@tcdc.govt.nz

THAMES POOL

Thames Centennial Pool is closed on Monday 26 October, resuming normal hours on Tuesday. www.tcdc.govt.nz/pools

DOG RESTRICTIONS

Over Labour Weekend, many of our beaches have restrictions on dogs. Look out for Council’s traffic light signage and check the rules in your area at NO DOGSwww.tcdc.govt.nz/dogownerguide $300 fine applies

ALCOHOL BANS

Alcohol bans are in place over Labour Weekend on some reserves, beaches and town centres from 4pm Friday to 4pm Monday. www.tcdc.govt.nz/alcoholcontrol www.theinformer.co.nz

Monday 28th September to Sunday 18th October 2026 GENERAL: 28 September – A wilful damage report was made regarding trees being cut down on council land in the Cooks Beach area. 29 September – A wilful damage complaint was made regarding a large rock being put into the public toilets at Cooks Beach. 30 September – A burglary was reported as having occurred at a Dundas Street address. A boat was entered with various items taken. 2 October – A burglary was reported as having occurred at a Sarah Ave address. Fuel was stolen from a boat on the property. A wilful damage incident occurred at a Joan Gaskell Drive address. The offending person fled the area. 3 October – An unknown person was found squatting in a bach in the Opito Bay area. Enquiries are continuing to speak with this person. A vehicle was taken from The Esplanade without consent from the owner. The vehicle was later recovered by associates. An E-bike was stolen from outside a commercial property on Albert Street. Police are making enquiries. 4 October – A burglary was reported as having occurred at a South highway property. A number of batteries and boat flares were stolen from the site. An Assault was reported as having occurred at a Cook Drive

Police Report

12 October – A burglary was reported as having occurred at a Cook Drive address. Various items were taken from the property. 17 October – A theft was reported as having occurred at a Robinson Road address. The offending party having taken the keys to a vehicle after a test drive. Enquiries are continuing to speak with this person.

address. Enquiries are continuing regarding this incident. 5 October – A known male was being disorderly on Albert Street. He was spoken to by police and removed from the area. An assault was reported as having occurred at Kuaotunu. Enquiries are continuing to speak with the offending person. 7 October – A burglary occurred at a South Highway address. A heavy-duty battery was taken from one of the vehicles on site. An offending person was trespassing at a Joan Gaskell Drive address. Enquiries are continuing. A burglary was reported as having occurred at a Kenneth Avenue address. CCTV footage has captured a person unlawfully on the property and removing items. Enquiries are continuing. 9 October – A vehicle was reported as stolen from a South Highway address. Enquiries are continuing regarding this incident. Also a vehicle was damaged at a Cook Drive address. The offending person stabbed a tyre prior to fleeing on a pushbike. A report of two offenders being unlawfully on property at a Boat Harbour Road address. These persons travelling through the property without consent. 10 October – An unknown person was captured by CCTV cameras unlawfully on property at a Rings Beach address. The occupants were home at the time.

ARRESTS: 1x male arrested for Trespass.

OCCURRENCES: 1 Oct – An argument occurred between a couple at Otama Beach. Also a family harm incident occurred at an Eyre Street address. 2 Oct – A breach of protection order occurred at a Cook Drive address. The offending person has been spoken to regarding the breach. A family harm incident occurred at a Bruce Street address. A Police Safety Order was issued with the offending party removed from the address. 3 October – A family harm incident occurred at a White Street address. The parties separated prior to police arrival. A Protection Order breach occurred at a Cook Drive address. 5 Oct – A family harm incident occurred at a White Street address. The trespassed person was removed from the location by police. A family harm incident

also occurred at a Simpson Place address. Both parties were spoken to regarding the matter. A verbal argument occurred at a Cook Drive address. A wilful damage incident occurred at a Joan Gaskell Drive address. A trespassed male was arrested at a White Street address after returning later that afternoon. 6 Oct – A family harm incident occurred at a White Street address. A physical altercation occurred with the offending person leaving the address. All parties were spoken to by police. A family harm occurrence was reported at a Simpson Place address. The aggressor returned to the address without consent after being told to leave by the occupant. 7 Oct – A family harm occurrence was reported at a Whenuakite address. The parties separated prior to police arrival and discussed their issues when both had calmed down. 9 Oct – A family harm incident at a Simpson Place address. The offending person continued to return to the address without consent and was subsequently issued with a Police Safety Order. 12 Oct – An intoxicated couple had a verbal argument at a Whenuakite address. Parties were separated by police. A verbal argument was reported as having occurred at a White Street address. Both were subsequently trespassed from the

address. 13 Oct – An intoxicated argument occurred between a couple at a Park Lane address.

TRAFFIC: 30 September – A traffic incident occurred at a South Highway commercial property where the driver lost control of his vehicle. 7 Oct – A stolen vehicle was observed travelling in the Whenuakite area. The driver failed to stop for police. 16 Oct – A vehicle collision occurred on SH25 Whenuakite. The offending vehicle conducted an unsafe passing manoeuvre and struck the victims vehicle when returning to the correct lane. The driver is to be spoken to regarding their actions. A vehicle crash occurred on Matarangi Road where the driver lost control on the wet road. The vehicle ended on its roof in the roadside ditch, thankfully with nil injuries to the occupant. 17 Oct – A driver was stopped on Lee Street and found to be over the alcohol limit. They are now facing a drink driving charge in court. 18 Oct – Single vehicle crash occurred on SH25, Whenuakite. The driver was not injured. A driver was spoken to after driving over cones at road works on SH25, Whenuakite. EBA procedures were completed and he was subsequently suspended due to his high reading.

OPITO BAY

Whitianga AUCTION

Whitianga

3 Kelly Place

YOUR PRIVATE OASIS!

Resort-Style Living, Sellers instructions are clear. Must be Sold! Set among beautifully landscaped gardens, this impressive home on a generous 841sqm section offers space, privacy and relaxed coastal living at its finest. With a sparkling swimming pool, spacious indoor and outdoor entertaining areas, double and single garaging, plus ample parking for the boat and toys, this property has everything you need to embrace the Whitianga lifestyle!

Sensational Views, Classic Opito Bay Charm 4

AUCTION: Tuesday 6pm, 17th Nov 2026 at 3 Kelly Place , Whitianga (Unless Sold Prior) VIEW: Sat 1:00-1:45, Sun 1:00-1:45pm

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Sensational ocean and island views from elevated position. Spacious living areas including large sunny decks. Beach access right across road. Established trees provide shelter, privacy and birdlife. Property includes garage which was the original bach. Space higher on the site offers exciting potential. Matarangi Dream Opito Bay location.

Deadline Sale

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www.richardsons.co.nz The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026 | 25

26 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026

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Reclaiming the Esplanade Mercury Bay Vision – Part 3

Existing wharf; Concept of filling in the marine area between the proposed wharf and the land; Taylors Mistake at low tide.

BY TREVOR AMMUNDSEN

his is the fourth of the series of columns to be printed under the title Mercury Bay Vision. These columns come from a document submitted to the TCDC. This document was prepared based upon submissions made as part of an earlier Vision series run by The Informer along with other contributions from the community. It is a growing document with contributions still able to be included from the community. The initial articles covered Buffalo Beach but now we turn the

corner into the Esplanade and submit a couple of ideas that could offer great benefit to the town, both for residents and various commercial activities.

ESPLANADE RECLAMATION It has been proposed to extend the wharf facilities in the Esplanade to provide enhanced facilities for commercial and tourist boats as well as private boats. The proposal submitted did not achieve a high level of approval from the community for a number of reasons, not least of which was the confusion around accessibility and parking for private

fisher people. What the proposal ignored is the marine area between the proposed wharf and the land. This area is mud at low tide and is virtually useless, it is seldom used if ever. So why not fill it in? A reclaimed block of land linking the existing shoreline to the proposed new wharf would provide access but would also provide land which could be used in a number of ways. Some ideas are; • Extending the trailer park for fishing folk • Building of a new heated swimming pool for tourists and the community (see page 12)

• Building of a new Community Centre, Convention Centre • Use as a reserve for such events as the Oceans Festival The pictures illustrate the original wharf proposal and the proposal to reclaim the land between the new wharf and the existing Esplanade area.

TAYLORS MISTAKE WEIR The creek running through Taylors Mistake (also known as Whakau Reserve) is known as Carina Creek. It is an intertidal stream that does not add much to the appearance or ambience of this reserve, especially so at low

tide when it is little more than a creek of mud. It is suggested that the erection of a weir about a third of the way up from the Esplanade would be beneficial as it would separate the fresh water from salt water in the area above the weir. This could form the basis of a general improvement to the appearance of the area, creating a permanent freshwater area allowing freshwater birds such as ducks to settle etc. The building of the weir should not be excessively expensive yet will be a good improvement to our town centre.

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The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026 | 27

WIN! Games & Puzzles Issue 1232

Crossword Puzzle © Lovatts Puzzles 5423

Issue 1232 – Grid 1199

Sudoku Puzzle

Proudly sponsored by Win a $5.60 Wednesday Lotto ticket. Hand deliver, mail, scan/photograph or email your entry to The Coromandel Informer, 14 Monk Street, Whitianga, or info@ theinformer.co.nz to reach us by 12:00pm on Monday each week. The winner must please claim their prize from the New World checkout manager directly.

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EVENTS

Great music at MBC Monumental mission for local Blaze Rockers.

Blaze Rockers – Trevor and Jannine from Tauranga performed at Mercury Bay Club Friday, 16 October. Very professional. Very

talented. Great songs. They will be back! The Beatles Tribute Band on Saturday night at the Mercury Bay Club was so

good. Half close your eyes and it was the real thing – the sound, voice and music was like the beloved Beatles of the 60s and 70s.

Campbell Duncan planning MONUMENT at Coroglen Tavern – Wed, 30 December. Photo: Roger Simpson.

Summer’s coming, and we’re counting down to Monument! on 30 December, Ladi6, David Dallas, CHAII and Team Dynamite will take over Coroglen Tavern for a massive day of live hip hop and electronic music. We’re locals who live and work here, and Monument grew from a few beers with mates into an idea we

decided to make happen. We are bringing an exciting line-up to our own backyard, give our community something to get behind and build an event that people come back for each summer. I’m in my mid-30s now and we have put together a lineup that I’d want to see myself. Ladi6 and David Dallas are legends of the

game, CHAII brings an awesome blend of hip hop and electronic music, and Team Dynamite are going to be unreal live. Round up your mates and come help us make the first Monument one to remember. Tickets: monument.eventbrite.co.nz. Physical tickets available at iSite Whitianga and the Coroglen Tavern.

The Beatles Tribute Band: ‘Ringo Starr’ – Nigel Sanderson, ‘George Harrison’ – John Clarke, ‘John Lennon’ – Tim Armstrong, ‘Paul McCartney’ – Don McClumpha.

ZOO WILD PRESENTS

30 DECEMBER 2026

COROGLEN TAVERN

LADI6 ⁄ DAVID DALLAS CHAII ⁄ TEAM DYNAMITE Physical tickets available at Whitianga iSite and the Coroglen Tavern monumentfestival.nz

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Hunt for your tickets at eventbrite.co.nz

The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026 | 29

What’s On OP SHOPS

Mercury Bay Cancer Support Trust Bookshop – Blacksmith Lane, Whitianga. Open every Mon-Sat 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. Tuesday 27 October, Friday 13 November, 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 Thursday 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 phone 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) – Paeroa Interesting speakers every 3rd Tuesday of the month. All are welcome. Paeroa Baptist Church, 2 Wood St, Paeroa. $10 at door for nonmembers. www.pc.org.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 021 0649232 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 Phone 021 09028855 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 Sunday 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. Phone Gillian Reid on 021 781 081 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 the

Town Hall. Phone Sue 021 274 7899 or mail 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 – Monday 6.30-9.30pm, MB Bowling Club. Players of all levels. Cost $2. Contact Brett Soanes 027 2117195 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 Club Wednesday at 1.45pm. Come and join us at the Community Centre (Hall). New members are most welcome, please contact Coral phone 021 2303944. 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 021 543 015. Hahei Tennis & Pickleball Club - Thursday & Sunday Contact Tim 027 8432683 or refer their facebook page. Meditation Classes –Spiritual, heart, soul development. Sacred energy, chakra activations, working with spiritual guides. Open forum conversation, Thursday, 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 Nirie Reddy 021 292 0197 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.

30 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 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 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 027 270 9058 for more information. Mercury Bay Environmental Trust – Every Tuesday and Friday 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 Golf Club – Twilight golf will commence on Friday 2 October, from 3pm, last card to printed by 5.15pm, must be in by 7pm; Sunday Funday, cards in by 10.30am for an 11am start. $10. Phone 07 866 5479. 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 9.3011.30am, 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 Place Courts) Thurs 3-5pm (Winter) 5-7pm (Summer) Saturday 9-11am Contact Grant 022 383 6351. Mercury Bay Squash Club – Lyon Park, Albert Street - New members/enquires please email mercbaysquash@gmail.com Mercury Bay Table Tennis – Every Tuesday, 9-11.30am at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk Street. All welcome. Phone Anne on 07 869 5162 or 027 565 5575 for more info. Mercury Bay Tennis Club – Social tennis at Lyon Park on a Thursday 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, Tuesday and Wednesday 6-7.30pm. Ph Tony 027 333 5146. Spiritual Conversation Mornings – Every Tuesday 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. 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 Thursday and Friday 10am-3pm, 23 School Road. Visitors and new members welcome. Phone Margaret on 027 635 1615 for more information. Whitianga Menz Shed – 18 Abrahamson Drive, Open Tuesday and Thursday, 9am-12 noon. Phone Glenn 027 495 2015. All welcome. Whitianga Playcentre – Every Tuesdayand Fri 9am-12 noon, 1F White St. Contact whitianga@ playcentre.org.nz or 027 880 3947. Whitianga Senior Citizens Club – Indoor bowls and card games. Mondays at the Whitianga Town Hall, Monk St, 1pm-4pm. Join us for a fun time and afternoon tea, 55+ age group. Phone Lionel Lawrence (president) on 027 274 6964 for more info. Whiti Stitchers – Embroiderers meet every

Tuesday 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 4:30pm-5:30pm, 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. Monday 2.30pm, Tuesday 2.30pm and 5.15pm, Thursday 4.20pm, Friday 8.45am, Sat 8.15am. Gentle Simple. $25 for a 90 minute session. Text Rosemary 027 448 9326 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. Tuesday beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, Seniors 12.45-2.30pm; Thursdays Seniors 10.15-11.15am, Absolute Beginners 11.30am-12.30pm, Improvers 12.45-1.45pm. 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 weekly 10am to 11.10am $20, Whitianga Town Hall supper room. All ages welcome.Marilyn Swan, experienced professional teacher of Dance.M: 027 336 5263 E; swanebbs@gmail. com Tairua ZUMBA GOLD class – Tuesday weekly 9-10am. Held upstairs in Tairua Fishing & Marine Club. $7. All welcome, contact Theresa 027 5760602. Whitianga Line Dancing Club Classes – Town Hall, Monk St. Absolute Beginners Wednesday 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 4.00pm at the Whitianga Town Hall in Monk St.

GROUP INFO

Grey Power Mercury Bay – We are going to have a Christmas lunch 3 December at the Mercury Bay Club. Doors open at 10.30am. 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 027 495 9477 or 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 027 248 0779. Email whitianga@ lionsclub.org.nz

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Water inspires creativity in photography challenge BY KATE BEAUCHAMP

hitianga Photographic Club members enjoyed September’s ‘Something in the Water’ challenge, producing a diverse collection of images that showcased both technical skill and creative interpretation. From abstract imagery and wildlife encounters to atmospheric land-

scapes, the entries demonstrated the many ways photographers can explore the beauty, movement and mystery of water. Thank you: The club would like to extend our thanks to Dr Nick Munnings LPSNZ, who gave his time to judge our competition and provide members with constructive feedback and encouraging members to develop their photographic skills. Nick selected two images as the winners, with both receiving Honours.

CHALLENGE WINNER: SALT BURSTS ON THE BOAT BY WENDY PEMBERTON LPSNZ Judge’s comments: Wendy’s creative use of Intentional Camera Movement (ICM) impressed Nick, who described the photograph as a great example of the techniquehe noted that there was enough information to provide context while the degree of movement was just right. The image was “well seen and creative”.

Salt Bursts on the Boat.

PREBUILT HOUSE PACKAGES

PHOTO OF THE MONTH: TWITCH PLAYING CAT N MOUSE BY ANITA RUGGLE-LUSSY LPSNZ Judge’s comments: Anita’s engaging photograph of a cat and mouse caught Nick’s attention with its sharp detail and carefully considered composition. He praised the sharpness of both subjects and the triangular arrangement leading in from the topright corner. It was the low camera angle that stood out most, with Nick describing it as the winning element of the image.

HI DE AWA Y

BE A CH HUT

Twitch Playing Cat n Mouse.

Congratulations to Wendy and Anita. The winning photographs, along with all the September entries, can be viewed on the Whitianga Photographic Club’s public Facebook and Instagram pages. Spooky Challenge: With Halloween just around the corner, October’s challenge is ‘Spooky’. This theme offers plenty

of scope for the imagination, whether through eerie lighting, mysterious subjects or ghostly apparitions. It will be exciting to see how members bring a little photographic magic to the month. On behalf of Whitianga Photographic Club.

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PROPERTY - COMMERCIAL - FAMILY COMMON LAW - PERSONAL - FINANCING TRUSTS - ASSET PROTECTION - NOTARY PUBLIC

14 Monk St, Whitianga 3510 www.renniecox.co.nz whitianga@renniecox.co.nz 0800RENNIECOX (0800 736 643) The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026 | 31

Trades & Services Advertise with us

JIMMY RODLEY CONCRETE POLISHING LTD

Ph 07 866 2090 or email sales@theinformer.co.nz

Owner/Operated

HEAT PUMPS

25 years experience High quality finishes

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED IN THE COROMANDEL

• Ground and polished concrete floors • Residential and commercial • Outdoor patios and driveways • Garage floors • Floor prep • Shot blasting • Fire hearths Contact Jimmy Rodley 027 656 8717 jimmyrodley@hotmail.com | 31 Wells Place, Whitianga

Call Leanne

0800 102 345

FARRIER AND HOOF TRIMMING SERVICE

leisurepools.co.nz

Servicing Whitianga & the surrounding area. Call Jon 021 0254 3570 or email jonmacca4@gmail.com

Phone Tony 027 494 7692

VULA AMANZI • Antifouling and Propspeed • Boat maintenance • Minor repairs Monthly specials and gold card discounts

Contact Brad on 028 400 8693 Email mbvula.amanzi@gmail.com

STRAIGHTLINE BUILDERS

Quality Building. Built on Trust. RENOVATIONS | EXTENSIONS | NEW BUILDS Thinking of building or renovating in the Coromandel? From transforming your existing home to building your dream home from the ground up, Straightline Builders delivers quality workmanship, attention to detail and a personal approach. Your vision. Our workmanship. Contact Bryson today to discuss your next project. 021 570 288 tiff@slb.co.nz

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

Call Bill for a free no obligation quote. 027 2714803

www.dynamicelectrical-whitianga.co.nz Warm up a medium sized bedroom with a Mitsubishi heatpump. Starting at $2000 installed.

Whitianga Property Renovators

STUMP GRINDING SERVICES

Coromandel/Thames & Whitianga area.

BJOLI BUILDERS Contact John 0276 425 654

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

• Builders • Plastering • Painting • Section Maintenance • Wallpapering • Fences • Decks Maree(Director) WPR Safe as Houses swprenos@xtra.co.nz

Safe as 0274 571 436 Houses 0800 007 366

BOBCAT - Truck Hire

Coastline Pool and Spa Ltd

*Building Site & Driveway Preparation *Post Hole Boring *Trenching *Metal & Topsoil Supplies *Section Clearance/Landscaping Experienced Owner/Operator

- Sales Chemicals • Pumps Filters•Covers•Heaters

Covering Whitianga, Coromandel and surrounding areas

WE MAKE THE EARTH MOVE

Mobile: 0274 934 212 A/Hrs 07 866 0505

- Service / Repairs - Maintenance P - (07) 211 9445 Nathan - 021 653 907

info@spapool.co.nz

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

Find The Informer on Instagram

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

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

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

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

Where to pick up The Coromandel Informer

Paeroa – Arkwright’s Antiques, 4 Square

Waihi – New World and Gold Discovery Centre

Thames – Pak n Save, The Green Grocer, Richardsons Real Estate, Aeroview Garden Centre, Superprice Furniture, Goldfields Shopping Centre Tairua – 4 Square, Surf n Sand Takeaways, Bayleys Real Estate, Gull Service Station, Super Liquor

Whangamata – New World, Tango’s Shoes, Whanga Books, Challenge Service Station, Whangamata Food Market, Whangamata Club, Saskia’s Beauty Whitianga – New World, Woolworths, 4 Square, Waitomo Service Station, Z Service Station, Tango’s Shoes, Stephensons Pharmacy, Mercury Bay Pharmacy, Liquorland, Well Stocked Deli, Whitianga isite, Warehouse Stationery

Coroglen – Coroglen Tavern

Coromandel – 4 Square, Coromandel Oyster Company, Super Liquor, Coro Liquor, Coromandel Information Centre, Coro Super Saver, James & Turner Kopu – Mobil Service Station

Also general stores at Cooks Beach, Hahei, Taruru, Te Puru, Tapu and Colville

Thank you to these businesses for their support 32 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026

www.theinformer.co.nz

WHITIANGA

Trades & Services

Cee-Jay

Peninsula Home Kills

Flooring & Property Services

HAMMER HARDWARE WHITIANGA TRADE

OPENING HOURS MON - FRI (8AM - 4:30PM) SAT (8:00AM - 1:00PM) CLOSED SUN WE’RE YOUR LOCAL FOR:

• Sleepers • Pergola Timber • Landscape Timber • Sheds • Fencing Rails • Custom Trellis • Decking • Smart Screens • Paving • Cement • Water Tanks • Nails, Bolts, Screws 225 South Highway, Whitianga P: 07 866 2457 E: whitiangatrade@hammerhardware.co.nz

Processing beef, sheep, pigs & all game

021 022 09421 MIKE & LEANNE

Top quality sausages, bacon, ham & salami

To North side of Tairua Hill

Bookings essential

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

Phone Cory Newton 021 616 304

cleanitskips@gmail.com

We clean curtains!

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

Relocatable house packages for sale at 5 & 40 Kohunui St, Ngatea

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

Andy 021 125 1668 Ian 027 442 6001

NZ manufactured aluminium windows and doors since 1990:

Local Whitianga agents covering Coromandel to Whangamata

BEFORE

- New builds & renovations - Replacement joinery in existing homes

AFTER

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

- Aluminium & glass balustrades

Justin Toomey 021 797406 Rodney Gamble 021 2411 421 Keith Mahon Painters Ltd admin@kmahonp.co.nz

Showers Splashbacks

07 866 5001

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

Mirrors

07 867 1772 (24hrs)

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

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

NEED WINDOW & DOOR REPAIRS? For all your concreting requirements including:

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

027 687 0107 www.theinformer.co.nz

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

www.plannersplus.co.nz

Windscreens

darren@coastalsigns.co.nz

Photo: FernVision

07 869 5990 | nzwindows.co.nz 1 Abrahamson Drive, Whitianga (Mon-Fri, 8-4)

• Interior/Exterior Painting • Interior Plastering • Airless Spraying • Wallpapering • Chemical Cleaning • Chemical Paint Remover • Moss and Mould Spraying

19 Campbell Street

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

CALL CLEANIT SKIPS TO CLEANIT UP

KEITH MAHON PAINTERS LTD Your local housemover and foundation SPECIALIST

NIT SKIPS CLEA 07 866 3721

SERVING THE WHOLE PENINSULA - 2011

Whitianga based Servicing Coromandel area Independant • Supply and lay • Vinyl, carpet, diamond grinding floor levelling

Call 027 557 7023 shorelinepainters23@gmail.com

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

From Whangapoua

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

CALL US ON 0800 25 25 00

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

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

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

MAXIMISE YOUR NUMBER OF SALEABLE SECTIONS Check out our Google reviews

SUBDIVISION SPECIALISTS // SITE SURVEYS AND BOUNDARIES

Call Now: Emma Heeney and Mark Blayney

07 866 0088 26 Lee Street, Whitianga

0800 268 632 surveyingservices.co.nz The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026 | 33

Classifieds PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

PUBLIC NOTICES

STORAGE AVAILABLE

Now Leasing:

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

ALTOGETHER YOUR

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

EXPERTS

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

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

WANTED! Long term & holiday. Free rental appraisals. Landlords & Tenants, for all your rental requirements.

3.6m high doors

Quality homes for quality tenants.

Call

Krissie Brand OUR PROPERTY MANAGER OF 25 YEARS

07 866 2373 or 027 273 4420

Licensed under the Real Estate Agents Act 2008 Understanding the Coromandel Since 1960

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT &

Rentals

Coromandel Beaches Rentals Licensed Agent REAA 2008

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

propertymanager.whitianga@harcourts.co.nz IN MEMORIAM

Maurice Thompson (George) Unveiling for my husband on Saturday, 24 October, 2026. Taking place at Tairua Cemetery at 12 noon. Hangi at 1pm.

GARAGE SALE

STORAGE

8 GOLF ROAD WHITIANGA

Phil 027 343 3023 storage@gr8storage.co.nz

GR8 STORAGE, WHITIANGA Phil – 0273 433023, Car, boat, campervan storage, 20 foot containers available to store your belongings.

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

STORAGE SHEDS Whitianga Total Storage, opposite Carters. Ph: 0800 944 660 FOR SALE

GRAZING

BUILDERS - 2 NEEDED

MOBILITY SCOOTER

LOOKING FOR HORSE GRAZING

To re-gib a flat ASAP Phone 027 666 5194

ESTATE SALE

LABOUR WEEKEND SATURDAY & SUNDAY 9am-12pm 20 Alf Simpson Dr, Whitianga

Calling for expressions of interest for

COACHING AND MANAGING ROLES

for U15 youth boys/1st XV girls and boys teams for 2027. Send correspondence to Att: Secretary – mbasrugby@gmail.com Applications close Sunday 25 October.

HARATAUNGA MARAE TRUST AGM Manaaki Tangata, Manaaki Manuhiri

WANTED

GARAGE SALES

SATURDAY 24TH FROM 7:30AM Bric a brac, fishing rods, games, ladies new clothing. Something for everyone. 108 Kupe Drive, Whitianga

MERCURY BAY SECONDARY SCHOOL RUGBY

“Destiny” brand. Little used. New Battery and charger. $750 ono.

Contact: David 0274 985 091

FIREWOOD FOR SALE Tea tree $250, Pine $150, She-Oak $200 per metre2 delivered. Phone (07) 866 3026 or text (027) 866 3026

MARKETS

WHITI CITI MARKETS Downtown Whitianga THIS SATURDAY 9AM-1PM Weather permitting

3 old horses. Local person. Ph 022 039 1216 HOLISTIC HEALTH

INTUITIVE ENERGY HEALER TAROT CARD READER VERNA (027) 320 0079 vernacarrspiritualhealing.com

ACCOMMODATION OFFERED www.tongariroriverretreat.comx

Sunday 8 November 2026 - 10.00am Agenda: • • • •

Chairperson’s Report Treasurer’s Report & Financials Trustee Elections Te Ara Hou & Whānau Priorities

Beneficiaries are encouraged to attend and bring their whakaaro for the future of Harataunga. Enquiries: harataunga.marae@gmail.com Nau mai, piki mai, haere mai.

Please be advised that Cooks Beach Lawn Mowing & Property Maintenance Services will be carrying out weed control spraying of Onehunga Weed (Prickle Weed) at 1055 Tairua Whitianga Road, Whenuakite between 24 October 2026 and 31 October 2026, weather permitting. The area will be signposted, and a site-specific spray plan is available on request. For further information, please contact – Bryan Skelton – 027 473 6114 – cooksbeachlawnmowing@gmail.com Please be advised that Cooks Beach Lawn Mowing & Property Maintenance Services will be carrying out weed control spraying of Onehunga Weed (Prickle Weed) at 6 Halligan Road, Whitianga between 20 October 2026 and 31 October 2026, weather permitting. The area will be signposted, and a site-specific spray plan is available on request. For further information, please contact – Bryan Skelton – 027 473 6114 – cooksbeachlawnmowing@gmail.com

Advertise with us

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

Ph 07 866 2090 or email sales@ theinformer.co.nz

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 Come, join the family Find peace and friendship.

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

Anglican Worship 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

34 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026

“Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not to your own understanding. In all your ways, acknowledge Him and He shall direct your path.” Proverbs 3:5-6

www.theinformer.co.nz

Sports

Proudly sponsored by

Lee, Wayne and Betty Simpson. Although Ray won once more the last game between Rays team and kens team was very close. Saturday 17 October We sent two teams to Whangamata to a four’s tournament and Ray’s team won. Rays winning team were Ray Rout, Maureen Lack, Judy Cullinane and Sandie Morris.

TAIRUA BRIDGE CLUB Round 2, Digger’s Creek Pairs Monday 12 October North/South: 1=, Jean Myles & Peter Clark, Ray Verrall 56.88; 3, Jocelyn Taylor & Christine Meinhold 56.35. East/West: 1, Sonia & Liz 62.50; 2, Sharon Verrall & Daphne Jenner 55.06; 3, Sue Poland & Brent Manssen 52.08.

HAHEI BRIDGE CLUB Handicap Pairs Tuesday 13 October North South: 1, Don Barry and Pam Churchill 55.21%; 2, Val Dwight and Sheryll Roberts 53.66%; 3, Alison Tichbon and Sue Gill 49.44% East West: 1, Peter Hogg and Robyn Waters 63.61%; 2, Peter Clark and Ngaire O’Brien 56.01%; 3, Robyn Hogg and Tia Ormsby 53.15%

MERCURY BAY CLUB DARTS 24 players this week so 501 doubles were played. 4 teams went through unbeaten in all four sets so a one game playoff was played. The teams were Mike Gillett & Todd Moses, Stoney & Keegan, Rex Donaldson & Gaz, Charlie Best & Chris Bennett. Mike Gillett and Todd Moses came away with a good win with Mike finishing on 80 with a triple 16 and double 16. Well done. Highest finish for the ladies was 50 scored by Chris Bennett. The 50 was a bullseye. Highest finish for the men was 109, scored by Bluey Stratton. No 180’s scored this week. MERCURY BAY CLUB SNOOKER Wednesday 14 October Three players came through section-play with 3 wins each. The evergreen Brian

Mercury Bay Indoor Bowls Club team; Winning Pair of all 4 games - Russell Farrant and Martin White.

Codyre demonstrated he still has what it takes by overcoming a determined Ken Gibson in a close play-off final to win the day’s honours. Previously, Greg Murphy showed consistent form in also scoring 3 wins but was out-scored by Ken in the playoff semi-final. No high break was recorded. Saturday 17 October Section-play produced three players with 3 wins each. Doug Pascoe drew the bye into the final. A semi-final between Rob Reilly and Bob Haase went down to the wire before Bob unfortunately went in off the black. The final was also closely contested with Doug getting across the line to take the day’s honours over Rob. Phil Jones scored the highest break with 20.

MERCURY BAY BRIDGE CLUB Championship Singles round 6 Wednesday, 14 October North/South: 1, Don Barry & Gavin Hedwig 63.4; 2, Giorgio Allemano & Pete Hogg 57.7; 3, Jenny Layton & Ischelle Stevenson 52.7 East/West: 1, Augusta Canegallo & Amy Hyde 61.9; 2, Robyn Hogg & Alison Tichbon 52.7; 3, Sheryll Roberts & Bob Schibli 50.9 Gumtown Pairs round 3 Thur, 15 Oct

LAST WEEK’S PUZZLE SOLUTIONS

1, Gavin Hedwig & Amy Hyde 77.8; 2=, Terri Lipanovic & Ischelle Stevenson, Hillary Scott & Alan Drew 48.4 MERCURY BAY INDOOR BOWLING CLUB Thursday 15 October Winners: Ken Lack, Lee Pudney and Sue Webb Runners Up: Ian Pudney and Merle Ward Good Sports: Lionel Lawrence, Judy Cullinane and Colleen Holmes

MERCURY BAY BOWLS CLUB Sunday 18 October saw the AutoBarn 2X4X2 competition at the Mercury Bay Bowls Club. One of the owners, James, was present to hand out prizes and also if anyone needed a restart or service during the day’s hot weather play. The winners and the only pair to win all 4 games on the day were Russell Farrant and new member Martin White. MERCURY BAY CLUB INDOOR BOWLS Monday 12 October 1, Ray, Cheryl, Lionel and Pat. 2, Ken, Jan, Colleen and Sandie. Good Sports, Ian P,

Oct‘26

THE DUNES GOLF CLUB Sunday 11 October Twilight 9 hole mixed stableford 1, Kayleen Smith 19; 2, Gavin Allden on count back 17; 3, Darryn Pritchard 17 Tueday 13 October 9 hole ladies Hidden Partners stableford 1, Pip Perry and Maree Cabaret 9 hole men’s nett medal 1, Ray Green 35; 2, Lance Croawell 37 on count back; 3, Kevin Walmsley 37 Wednesday 14 October 18 hole men’s nett 1, Nick Lambert 66; 2, Raymond Fanning on count back 70; 3, Geoffrey Hill 70 NTP #18: Graham Harrison. Twos: Robin Fleming and Glen LeLievre on #14 Thurday 15 October Arnold Cup – Par 3 Comp stableford 1, Mark Hall 22; 2, Oliver Rose 18; 3, Darryn Pritchard 17 Friday 16 October The Malcolm Spry Memorial Golf Tournament – Ambrose net medal 1, Kevin Adlam-Justin Wilson-Dominik Szparagowski – nett 62.67 Saturday 17 October Mixed 18 hole haggle stableford 1, Allsion Drake-Wells on count back 37; 2, Chrissie Smith 37; 3, Hayden Comer 35 NTP #18: Polly Lambert Twos: Polly Lambert #7; Oliver Rose #14

October 2026

PETER’S QUIZ ANSWERS Answers to quiz 25 on page 22

1) The Montgolfier brothers? 2) 70s

3) Invercargill 4) Pointillism 5) 3510

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, 21 October – Jupiter sits about half way between reddish Mars and Regulus in the pre-dawn eastern sky. Tonight is the peak of the Orionid meteors which are most likely to be visible well after midnight coming from the east at a rate of perhaps one every couple of minutes. Thursday, 22 October - The Moon is high above slightly yellowish Saturn after dusk in the east. Friday, 23 October – The Moon is rapidly approaching Saturn after dusk sitting just above it and we have a very short and low ISS pass from 9:35pm in the south moving between the Southern Cross and the two pointers. Saturday, 24 October – The Moon is now just to the left of Saturn after dusk in the east and we have a low ISS pass in the south from 8:48pm moving through the Southern Cross. Sunday, 25 October –

www.theinformer.co.nz

Saturn now lies just above the Moon after dusk in the east and there is a short ISS pass in the SW from 9:37pm. Monday, 26 October – The Moon rises later and lies below Saturn in the east with an ISS pass in the SW from 8:50pm. Tuesday, 27 October – There is a low ISS pass in the SW from 9:40pm. We have now lost Venus to the Sun’s glare at dusk but faint Mercury is still visible about half way between the red giant Antares in Scorpio and the horizon. Venus will be back in the dawn sky next week as it is about to pass to the other side of the Sun. The predawn sky has Mars, Jupiter and Regulus all lined up with the red planet above Jupiter, the brightest by far. Saturn remains high overhead all night and is slightly yellowish with the Moon helping us to find it.

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

Mercury Bay – the sun, the moon and the tides

Wednesday 21 October

Thursday 22 October

Friday 23 October

Saturday 24 October

Sun: Rise 6:25am Set 7:38pm

Sun: Rise 6:24am Set 7:39pm

Sun: Rise 6:23am Set 7:40pm

Sun: Rise 6:21am Set 7:41pm

Moon: Set 3:35am Rise 2:23pm

Moon: Set 4:01am Rise 3:26pm

Moon: Set 4:26am Rise 4:29pm

Moon: Set 4:51am Rise 5:34pm

High Tides:3:10am 3:49pm

High Tides:4:07am 4:41pm

High Tides:5:04am 5:31pm

High Tides:5:58am 6:19pm

HOT WATER Low Tides:9:01am 9:43pm BEACH

HOT WATER Low Tides:9:57am 10:35pm BEACH

HOT HOT WATER Low Tides:10:52am 11:27pm WATER Low Tides:11:44am BEACH BEACH

Sunday 25 October

Monday 26 October

Tuesday 27 October

Sun: Rise 6:20am Set 7:42pm

Sun: Rise 6:19am Set 7:43pm

Sun: Rise 6:18am Set 7:44pm

Moon: Set 5:17am Rise 6:43pm

Moon: Set 5:46am Rise 7:55pm

Moon: Set 6:20am Rise 9:10pm

High Tides:6:49am 7:07pm HOT WATER Low Tides:12:16am 12:35pm BEACH

High Tides:7:39am 7:55pm HOT WATER Low Tides:1:05am 1:25pm BEACH

High Tides:8:28am 8:43pm HOT WATER Low Tides:1:53am 2:15pm BEACH

THIS SPACE COULD BE YOURS Sponsor the tides column

For details email: sales@theinformer.co.nz

The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026 | 35

Proudly locally owned and operated

Mercury Bay Performing Arts brings the circus to town BY FABIAN ROBERTS

orty locals explored circus theatre over the weekend when Mercury Bay Performing Arts brought The Dust Palace NZ to Whitianga. Held on Saturday 17 October at Whiti Cross WOD Gym, the workshops gave children, teenagers and adults the opportunity to explore physical theatre, tumbling, acrobatics, teamwork, balance and coordination with Dust Palace Artistic Director Eve Gordon. Bringing experiences like this to our community has been a longstanding goal of mine. When I founded Mercury Bay Performing Arts, the vision extended beyond putting on shows. Our productions are an important part of what we do, but we also want to offer a range of activities and learning experiences for our tamariki and wider community. That means bringing experts to the peninsula, creating

opportunities to try different performing arts disciplines and helping people develop skills and confidence close to home. Over time, we hope to establish a regular performing arts club and organise visits to larger centres, where our locals can watch and learn from some of New Zealand’s leading theatre companies. The Dust Palace workshops were another step in that journey. Having sessions for different age groups also meant adults could take part, extending the opportunity beyond our young performers. We hope the skills learned

will carry directly into our upcoming production of Grease Young@Part in May 2027. Movement, physical storytelling and teamwork can all enhance the show while making the rehearsal and performance experience more rewarding for everyone involved. Thank you to Eve, Whiti Cross WOD Gym and everyone who participated. To learn more about our plans, get involved or find out how you can support Mercury Bay Performing Arts, please contact me, Fabian Roberts, at mercurybaypa@ gmail.com

HARKIN BOAT WORKS

45+ years of experience in timber and composite construction

LAURA ASHLEY FABRICS*

• 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

36 | The Coromandel Informer – 20 October 2026

SELECTED BLINDS, SHUTTERS AND MOTORISATION^

Plus, a free in-home measure and quote!

Right now at Guthrie Bowron, get 15% off Laura Ashley fabrics*, and 15% off selected blinds, shutters and motorisation^! Orders must be in by 2nd November 2026, so pop in store and have a chat to our knowledgeable team about your window furnishings. Inspiration starts here, at your local Guthrie Bowron. Guthrie Bowron Whitianga 2/9 Joan Gaskell Drive, Whitianga 3510 07 866 0035 Email curtains@gbwhitianga.co.nz *Applies to the retail price of fabric only. Excludes any making or installation costs and not available in conjunction with any other offer. Orders must be confirmed by 2nd November 2026 to be eligible for this offer. ^Selected styles and brands only. Conditions apply. Orders must be confirmed by 2nd November 2026 to be eligible for this offer. Please see guthriebowron. co.nz or in-store for full details. #Travel distance parameters may apply.