Northland news in brief: Key beach bans as dog rules tighten for summer

Dogs will soon be unable to be on some Whangārei beaches between 9am to 5pm from December 20.

Between December 20 and January 31, most Whangārei beaches will only allow dogs before 9am or after 5pm. There are 10 year-round off-leash dog beaches that will stay open during the summer. Dogs are not allowed year round at places such as Kauri Mountain Beach, Matapōuri estuary, the Ngunguru sandspit and several others. For more information visit Whangārei District Council’s website.

Free buses

Northland Regional Council’s CityLink buses have teamed up with the Whangārei A&P Show again to celebrate one epic show day. On Saturday, December 6 two free shuttle buses will run from Rose Street to the show, continuously from 8.40am to 4.15pm. For more information go to CityLink Whangārei’s Facebook page or www.buslink.co.nz.

AED missing

Hato Hone St John has asked for the safe return of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) from Waitangi Mountain Bike Park. In a Facebook post, Hato Hone St John appealed for the return of the device, saying it provides life-saving resources and is costly to replace.

Kaihu crash

Two people were flown to hospital by helicopter after a serious single-vehicle crash near Kaihu on Monday. Emergency services were called to the crash on State Highway 12 at 3.50pm, with Hato Hone St John sending two ambulances and a rescue helicopter. One person was in a serious condition and one in a moderate condition, with both flown to Whangārei Hospital. Police said the road was cleared within an hour.

Safety rethink

Hato Hone St John is calling for people to consider preventive measures to avoid needing emergency aid. Ambulance teams are preparing for a surge in demand over the silly season. They encouraged people to take care on the roads, be prepared when travelling, know basic first aid and be safe in, on and around water. Non-urgent issues should be dealt with via Healthline or by visiting a local GP or pharmacy.

Hill St closes

Hill Street in Onerahi will be periodically closed for work on the underground water-mains until December 19. The site will be reinstated and made safe for the Christmas break.