Boy hit by car
A boy has been taken to Kaitaia Hospital after he was hit by a car on the Karikari Peninsula about 4pm yesterday.The boy, thought to be 7 years old, had got off a school bus on Simon Urlich Rd when police say he went around the back of the bus and crossed the road into the path of a car turning right from Tokerau Beach Rd.
The Kaitaia Abundant Life School pupil was initially unconscious but was talking when St John Ambulance arrived. He suffered cuts, grazes and minor concussion. A witness said it was fortunate the car was travelling slowly and in second gear at most.
Inmates showcase talents
A Community Outreach Expo at Ngawha Prison yesterday aims to showcase the inmates' creative endeavours to local community and business organisations.
The prisoner theatre group will put on a performance about challenges they will face once released, the prison band will play a concert and artwork will be on display.
The event is also a chance for prisoners and staff to thank partner organisations for supporting the prisoners' rehabilitation, including after their release. Organisations taking part include Habitat for Humanity, Bald Angels, Kerikeri Theatre Company, Creative Northland and Company of Giants.
Regional fund grants
Whether or not Northland gets a slice of the $1 billion regional development fund will be known when the first lot of winners are announced tomorrow.Minister for Regional Development and Whangarei list MP Shane Jones will make the announcement in Gisborne.
The fund includes the "Billion Trees Planting Programme" to plant 1 million trees a year and a feasibility study on the options for moving the Ports of Auckland to Northport.
Tongans send cash
Northland-based Tongans are sending money directly to family and friends affected by Tropical Cyclone Gita rather than organise fundraising drives locally.
Spokesman Kuli Fisi'iahi said because of urgent daily needs on the island such as food, clothing and shelter Tongans in Northland decided to send money. He said a lot of affected families relied on cash donations from overseas.
Kamo animal park delay
Kamo Wildlife Sanctuary may not open until early next year due to ongoing remedial work.
"There is a lot of work to do but we are working hard with the goal of being open for next summer," said the latest post on the Kamo Wildlife Sanctuary facebook page. "Our animals are looking great and the grounds are coming together.
We plan to start construction work again shortly on the next stage. The weather has caused some delays."
The park has been closed since July 2014.