Far North briefs: Solar export limit increase, kayak workshops, pedestrian killed in crash

The Kiwi Association of Sea Kayakers is again running a free kayaking safety workshop at Waitangi, on Sunday February 22.

Fatal crash

A person died after being struck by a vehicle in Haruru, Northland. Police said the pedestrian was hit on Puketona Rd, near the Garden Court intersection, at about 12.10am on Sunday. “Sadly, despite emergency services best efforts, the pedestrian died at the scene.” Puketona Rd was closed between Haruru Falls Rd and Te Karuwha Parade while the Serious Crash Unit conducted a scene examination, police said.

Solar limit

As part of its ongoing commitment to supporting local renewable generation and giving customers more flexibility in how they generate, use and store energy at home, Top Energy will increase its solar export limit to 10kW per installation from April 1, 2026.

Kayak workshops

The Kiwi Association of Sea Kayakers is again running a free kayaking safety workshop at Waitangi on Sunday 22 February. It is part of the KayakSafe NZ programme, run by the Kiwi Association of Sea Kayakers (Kask) and made possible by Safer Boating Forum funding support from Maritime New Zealand. Held throughout the country, the workshops are presented by experienced Kask members volunteering their time to share their knowledge. Topics covered include understanding the environment, hazards, weather and interpreting marine forecasts, essential safety equipment, communication devices, suitable clothing, trip planning and what to do in emergencies.

Cemetery upgrade

The new extension to the Kororāreka/Russell Cemetery was officially opened last month, marking an important milestone for the local community and providing much-needed additional burial space. The extension, located behind the existing cemetery on Queens View Rd, has been developed on a 2200sq m parcel of land that was generously donated by a local resident. The existing cemetery had reached capacity and the new area helps address ongoing demand. From mid-February, 20 ash berms and 20 burial plots will be made available for purchase.