Northland news in brief

Police are advising people to be cautious if buying meat products from individuals after three sheep were stolen from a farm in Kaipara District.

Beware cheap sheep meat

Anyone offered cheap sheep meat should be wary because it could make them ill, Northland police say.

Police are advising people to be cautious if buying meat products from individuals, because the meat may not be safe to eat.

Three sheep were stolen from a farm in Kaipara District overnight last Thursday. Police suspect the animals were taken and killed for meat.

However, the sheep were drenched with worming chemicals a week ago. The chemical can stay in the sheep's system for up to 28 days and consuming this meat may result in illness.

Anyone with information can call their police station or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.

Rape accused in custody

A Northland man has appeared in court on a charge of rape and two of unlawful sexual connection with a female. He also faces a charge of breaching parole conditions.

At the Whangarei District Court yesterday, Judge Greg Davis granted the man interim name suppression. Judge Davis also declined a media application to take photos.

The two unlawful sexual connection charges relate to October 13, and the rape charge to October 25. All three charges involve the same female, who is aged over 16.

The man was remanded in custody until November 14 when he was scheduled to again appear in the Whangarei District Court.