Arson accused in court
An unemployed Haruru Falls woman has appeared in court charged with setting fire to a Paihia home. Alexandra Craven, 17, appeared in the Kaikohe District Court on Wednesday, a day after a home in Paihia's Kings Rd backpacker area was gutted by fire. She was charged with arson of the MacMurray Rd home, destroying the tenant's property, entering a building to commit a crime, and possession of cannabis. She is due back in court on February 20. A 16-year-old girl from Kerikeri was referred to police Youth Aid in relation to the fire.
Cyclist collides with car
A Whangarei female cyclist has been taken to hospital with minor injuries after colliding with a car in Maunu. The woman was riding on Maunu Rd, near Cemetery Rd, about 7pm on Wednesday, when she collided with a car believed to have been pulling out from a driveway. Ambulance staff attended and the woman, aged 22, was taken to Whangarei Hospital with minor injuries, including abrasions. Whangarei police are investigating.
Assault alleged at funeral
A Whangarei teacher has been charged in connection with an assault his uncle's partner with a tent pole at his father's funeral in Otane. Bryce Mcleod Taylor, 31, appeared in Waipukurau District Court yesterday and denied assaulting both the woman and his uncle, yet pleaded guilty to two firearms charges after two rifles were later found in his vehicle at the same incident on December 30. Mr Taylor, who lives in Whangarei and whose occupation was listed as "teacher", was remanded on bail and ordered not to enter the township of Otane, or contact the victims. He will reappear on May 24 to defend charges including possession of an offensive weapon, assault with a weapon and assault.
Beach Bonanza early
Families looking for a day out this weekend could head to Baylys Beach for the annual Beach Bonanza Carnival. Traditional held on Waitangi Day the Bonanza has been bought forward a week this year and will be held on Sunday. Races start at 10am, the sand sculptures at 11am and volleyball at noon. A food caravan will be on site.
Boat racing events
The 125th Pahi regatta this Anniversary Weekend is a highlight of the boating community. Launch, powerboat and kayak races feature as part of tomorrow's activities. The popular and much supported Miss and Master Pahi contests will also feature, with categories from birth through to the finale, the sashing of Miss Pahi. While very much a water event, those on shore can enjoy not only the races but stalls, sideshows musical entertainment and refreshments - a plenty well into the evening. Sunday will seen the return of the iconic bathtub races.