Far North news in brief: Lotto win, support continues and MSD branch closed

A ticket sold in the Kerikeri has won its holder more than $18,000 with Lotto Second Division

Lotto luck

A ticket sold in the Far North has won its holder more than $18,000 with Lotto Second Division. The ticket, sold at Woolworths, Kerikeri, was among 15 that each won $18,258 in Saturday night’s draw. The winning numbers were 1, 9, 25, 30, 38 and 40, with the bonus number 22 and Powerball number 4. Powerball was not struck and will be worth $10 million on Wednesday.

Support ongoing

Far North District Council lifted its State of Emergency on Thursday, but a 28-day recovery period means help will still be available for those who need it. The March storm had widespread impacts, with 118 homes in Kaitāia evacuated, and 65 homes in Whirinaki and 40 in Wekaweka being inundated. Those in need of help can call the council on 0800-920-029.

Branch closed

The Kaitāia Work and Income Service Centre has temporarily closed following recent flooding, but while closed, support for the Far North community continues. People who need financial assistance can visit workandincome.govt.nz; log into MyMSD; call 0800 559 009 for Work and Income; call 0800 552 002 for Senior Services. If people have forms or other paperwork, they can be left in the secure dropbox at Te Hiku Connect - 12 Puckey Ave.

Track closed

Te Tahawai Track in Kerikeri is closed for the rest of the year while construction work is carried out nearby. The track is one of a network of popular paths that link rivers and waterfalls in the Kerikeri area. The closure involves a 350-metre stretch between Sammaree Place and Hall Rd and the section of an unformed road between Mill Lane and Hall Rd. Construction work at a property on Hall Rd triggered the closure but it is hoped a detour around the work site will be introduced at a later stage. Signs will be erected in the area advising the public of this temporary closure which is expected to be in place until December.

Fatal crash

A person died in a single-vehicle crash in Kaitāia on Saturday night. Emergency services were alerted to a vehicle hitting a tree, near the intersection of North Rd and Farrimond Place, about 10.30pm. Police said the driver, the sole occupant, died at the scene. Police are providing their family with support and inquiries into the cause of the crash are ongoing.

Winter preparations

Health New Zealand is urging people to prepare for winter by getting recommended vaccines for influenza, Covid-19 and whooping cough. The flu shot has been available since April 1 and is free for those over 64, pregnant women and people with certain medical conditions. Covid-19 vaccination is free year-round for everyone over 30, with emphasis on those at higher risk of severe illness. A whooping cough epidemic means pregnant women and young babies are encouraged to stay up-to-date to protect vulnerable newborns.