Firefighters from across the north were kept busy over New Year with vegetation fires, prompting a warning about lighting fires in windy conditions. Photo / NZME
Four fire appliances from Rawene, Ōmāpere, and Dargaville attended a small grass fire on private property at 4.30pm on Wednesday near Ōmāpere. The fire was quickly contained and there were no reports of injuries. Earlier in the day crews battled a 5ha blaze south of Kawakawa. One firefighter
received minor injuries and was taken to hospital. A helicopter and firefighters from Kawakawa, Paihia, Hikurangi and Kaikohe attended and eventually contained the blaze. Fire and Emergency group manager for Northland Denis Cooper said the fire had taken hold because of the wind. Speaking generally, he reminded Northlanders that windy conditions were not favourable for lighting backyard or rubbish fires.
Two injured in Kaipara crash
Two people were transported to Whangārei Hospital after a single-vehicle crash on Thursday in Tangiteroria on Paradise Rd. Hato Hone St John was notified of the incident at 4pm and responded with one ambulance. Police also attended. A Hato Hone St John spokeswoman said one patient was in a moderate condition and another in a minor condition.
Z Manu World Champs qualifier in Whangārei
Qualifiers across regional New Zealand are showcasing the country’s top manu talent in the lead-up to the Z Manu World Champs. More than 2000 competitors across the country took part in last year’s competition. Organiser Scott Rice said the bar is set high and Northland would be one of the first to host a qualifier in 2025. The region has always produced high-quality athletes, he said. A qualifying event takes place in Whangārei on January 18 at 10am, with divisions for adults, youth and kids.
