Northland news in brief

Far North District councillor Willow-Jean Prime expects to be back on the campaign trail in two weeks.

Baby girl for candidate

Northland Labour candidate and Far North District councillor Willow-Jean Prime has given birth to a daughter weighing a healthy 4.2kg and measuring 56cm long. Heeni Hirere-June Te Kare o Nga Wai Prime was born at 5.30pm on Saturday at Whangarei Hospital's Te Kotuku maternity unit.

Mother and baby are recovering at Bay of Islands Hospital in Kawakawa. Heeni, who takes her names from three grandmothers and the rippling waters of the Waikere River, is the second daughter of Willow-Jean and husband Dion Prime. Mrs Prime expects to go home any day and return to the campaign trail within the next two weeks.

Storm forecast for North

Strong winds and heavy rain could hit Northland today.

The MetService has issued a weather watch for the region, saying heavy rain, possibly reaching warning criteria of 60mm-70mm in nine to 12 hours or 100mm in 24 hours, may descend this morning and continue into the afternoon.

Strong winds are also likely during the day. MetService said a complex low over the Tasman Sea and its associated fronts are forecast to affect many parts of New Zealand during today. For the latest weather information see www.metservice.com.

Two hurt in crash

Two people were injured in a two-car crash on State Highway 12 on Monday. The accident happened near Paparoa at 5pm. One person was taken to Whangarei Hospital with chest injuries, while another person suffered minor injuries.