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News briefs from the Far North - new Kiwis sign up, apprentice comp and Top Energy trustee

News snippets from the Far North.

Dozens of earthquake-prone buildings on Dannevirke’s main street given extension

Almost 40 buildings on the township's main street require earthquake strengthening.

14 new social houses opened in Kerikeri by Kāinga Ora

Kāinga Ora opens 14 new Far North social houses

'How far I've come': Valedictorian's journey of renewal and success

Elijah Rogers is graduating with a BA in Māori as an EIT valedictorian.

Sex crimes case: Why an entertainment figure’s identity is still secret

It has been six months since a Court of Appeal hearing about name suppression.

'Atrocious': Alder slams attendance records of some councillors

Average attendances range from 67% to 100%; genuine reasons but other excuses criticised

Councillor Tupara questions 'why it is an issue' over low meeting attendance rate

Nick Tupara's attendance fell from 87.2% in first year of term to 41.2% since October.

‘Proud and stoked’: Prisoners transform old mattresses into dog beds for SPCA

'They are really proud and stoked.'

Northland's meth crisis: Mexican cartels, lower prices, and devastation

Mexican cartels are undercutting Asian suppliers, increasing meth supply.

Nervous for survival: Māori ward councillors prepare for critical elections

Forty-two councils will hold a poll for Māori wards in 2025 elections.

Watch: Embattled Green MP admits political naivety over social media posts

The MP has been away from Parliament after receiving death threats.

NZTA cleans up large diesel spill from truck

About 200 litres of diesel spilled on State Highway 1 at Sanson.

The Pulsing Brain: Advanced MRI tech by NZ researchers reveals brain micro-movements

Mātai Medical Research contributes to special issue of UK Royal Society's journal

The PM talks rural connectivity on The Country

Christopher Luxon, Rebecca Wilson, Todd Charteris, and Kelly Wilson.

Who's the best apprentice? Builders hammer away for top spot

Up to 22 regional winners will compete in the national final in Hamilton in June.

Farmer loses wedding ring inside cow

Butcher found the ring in cow's stomach.

Resealing on Waikato Expressway at Cambridge requires 24-hour lane closure

Motorists can expect delays of up to 30 minutes at peak travel times.

Whanganui Corrections staff member critically injured in assault

'This sort of violence against our staff is unacceptable.'