News briefs from Northland: Spirits Bay death, Ōtangarei Matariki event

The man who died at Spirits Bay (above) on Tuesday was a visitor from Australia.

Drowning victim Aussie visitor

The man who died after being swept off rocks at Spirits Bay on Tuesday afternoon was a 48-year-old Australian who had been holidaying in the Far North with his family. His body was recovered from the water and taken to Kaitaia. A rahui has been imposed at Spirits Bay.

Matariki celebration

An Ōtangarei event this Sunday to celebrate Matariki with the community will also celebrate the suburb's new playground.The Ōtangarei Matariki Festival runs from 1pm to 4pm and will be held at Central Reserve or the school if it's raining. The team from Oranga Tamariki will be there face painting with tamariki and whānau alongside a range of other local organisations.

Ballroom winners

Kerikeri GP Simon Bristow and primary school teacher Vicki Bell (salsa) won Hospice Mid-Northland's Battle of the Ballroom on Saturday night. Sixteen well-known Northlanders competed. Kerikeri police officer Rob Drummond and events manager Emma Klinac (samba) placed second, and deputy Mayor Tania McInnes and lawyer Rick Palmer (tango) were third.

CCTV camera plans

Plans are afoot to set up CCTV cameras on the Karikari Peninsula to deter the burglars who have been helping themselves for some time. Tokerau Beach holiday home owner John Rule has been working with Kaitaia police officer Jeff Phillipps, who led the establishment of Kaitaia's camera system. Now the steering committee, chaired by Eddie Bellas (phone 027 321 8029), is keen to hear from anyone who would like to be involved.

Taipa midwinter swim

Anyone who's up for a swim on Sunday will be very welcome at Taipa. Ramada Resort Reia Taipa Beach will stage its fourth annual midwinter swim at 10am, with a prize for the best-dressed bather, free hot chocolate or mulled wine (for those who actually get wet), brunch specials and live entertainment. Jack Tane will perform from 10.30am.