Pair fined over cow welfare

A Northland farming couple have each been fined $2000 for failing to maintain the welfare of their cattle.

Bruce and Dorothy Jonson, of Rangiahua, were charged with failing to meet the physical and health needs of up to 39 cows.

The couple were found guilty after a defended hearing in the Kaikohe District Court, during which four other charges were dismissed.

The SPCA prosecution - seen to be an Animal Welfare Act test case - resulted from the couple's failure to shift cattle trapped by floodwaters.

None drowned but Judge Russell Johnson said they were frightened. He directed the Jonsons to each pay $1951 to the SPCA for costs involved in the prosecution.