Read our media releases from around the country A behind the scenes look at how we care for New Zealand's native species and natural environment Have your say on issues we are consulting on Scam alerts: we’ve seen an increase in scam texts and emails claiming to be from us, asking for payments.Check our example scams or report a scam to us NZTA App: our mobile app provides a simple and secure way to access your driver licence and vehicle information.Learn more and download the NZTA app We’re adding a clip-on shared path to the Waikanae River bridge on Old SH1 This clip-on will provide a new walking and cycling path over the river To install this clip-on bridge as safely and efficiently as possible the work requires traffic management and a significant detour for southbound vehicles The clip-on path is a part of the wider Mackays to Peka Peka (M2PP) revocation project This project is all about making changes and improvements to the old State Highway 1 reflecting the way it is now used with the M2PP section of the Kāpiti expressway open NZ Transport Agency and Kāpiti Coast District Council worked together to develop the revocation plan Mackays to Peka Peka (M2PP) revocation M2PP section of the Kāpiti expressway the clip-on bridge will make crossing Waikanae River safer for pedestrians and cyclists and better separate drivers from those walking or cycling The clip-on project is budgeted to cost $1.9 million (shared by NZ Transport Agency and Kāpiti Coast District Council) Work is expected to run from 16 January 2024 We're working with our contractors to identify opportunities wherever possible to accelerate the work View Waikanae Bridge project images We identified a detour as the best way to manage traffic it would lead to long queues and delays in both directions This leads to safety concerns including the risk of vehicles queueing across the local rail level crossing We understand the detour means delays and longer journeys for road users We are working with our contractors to complete the project as quickly as we practically can Our team at the Wellington Transport Operations Centre (WTOC) are actively monitoring traffic flows on the detour route They are adjusting the phasing of traffic lights to ensure traffic flows smoothly particularly at the expressway offramp at Kāpiti Road Wellington Transport Operations Centre Download Waikanae Bridge detour map [PDF, 378 KB] Road users travelling south between Waikanae and Paraparaumu will need to use the detour via the Expressway during the work We acknowledge this means longer journeys for people and we understand the impact this has on the community This is the best way we can keep traffic moving safely and provide certainty of journey times there will be limited southbound access which will allow emergency services and school busses to cross the bridge Any other southbound access requests are being assessed on a case-by-case basis Please send all enquiries and requests to M2PPrevocation@nzta.govt.nz From the start of the project until about late February our contractors will be working to build the foundations for the ends of the clip-on at each end of the Bridge and the location of the foundations immediately next to the road this requires the one-way detour to be in place as workers and machinery will be using the nearest road lane This will be followed by a few days to establish a pad for the crane which will be used to add the clip-on structure to the bridge From late February until the project is finished workers will begin to modify the existing bridge We need to keep one lane closed on the bridge at all times when the footpath and railings are removed as there will be an exposed edge over the river Crews will then add the clip-on structure in sections which have been prefabricated off-site and add the finishing details such as the new handrail and vehicle safety barrier Attaching the pre-made trusses involves attaching hundreds of bolts to the existing bridge structure as the bridge is also home to critical water pipes and electrical cables crews will be working on elements off the bridge such as connecting paths 3D model of the completed clip-on showing the handrails and new pathway 3D model of the completed clip-on shown from below showing the brackets supporting the path above faecal matter and ducks have all been behind closures at the Waikanae Pool this summer On Wednesday the Kapiti Coast District Council posted on Facebook that it needed to clear the pool for hygiene reasons a few too many times "While our aquatics facilities have been popping off this summer we've had to sound the 'everybody out' alarm a few too many times over the summer months," the council wrote reminded parents and caregivers that swim nappies were required for under fours It also advised them to take children out of the water that looked a bit green around the gills Although the Waikanae Pool has had to close on several occasions due to hygiene issues there has not necessarily been a 'code brown' Council Aquatics manager Steve Millar said due to being an outdoor venue where people could picnic their most common hygiene issues were from children vomiting and then not having enough time to relax before they jump in the pool and swim." Blood from roughhousing by the pool and faecal matter also made the list of closure reasons But Millar said one of their most unusual closures this summer was for ducks "A family of ducks made itself at home and had some accidents in the pool Millar said the pool had not closed more than usual and dealing with hygiene issues was part of normal swimming pool operation But he said there had been a fair bit of talk on Facebook about the closures so it seemed like a good time to remind people how they could avoid issues Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday A Canterbury swimming pool is using artificial intelligence technology to reduce the risk of drownings First person - Leonard Powell takes a dip in Auckland's newest saltwater pool The pool could see out another 60 years with the right upgrade councillor says - but its future is uncertain Former All Black Piri Weepu will be among those competing to make the biggest splash in Wellington this weekend Hastings District Council says criticism of pricing at Splash Planet is unfair because the attraction compares well with similar tourist drawcards in New Zealand New Zealand RSS Follow RNZ News Melissa Nightingale spent a night at Ngā Manu Nature Reserve in Waikanae where guests can interact with native wildlife Melissa Nightingale spends a night at Ngā Manu Nature Reserve in Waikanae, joining in encounters with native wildlife including a special night visit with kiwi and he has little respect for personal space While I’m trying to listen to senior ranger Bosun Henderson Batty tell me about our native wildlife my new friend is rubbing his beak on my face and climbing on my head like it’s a piece of playground equipment I’m meeting native birds at Ngā Manu Nature Reserve in Waikanae, one of several encounters offered at this Kāpiti Coast tourism spot Bosun has brought me into the aviary where a vision-impaired kererū lives peacefully with some kākāriki and a pair of kākā - one of whom has wasted little time landing on my shoulder to smell my hair something he is fond of doing with visitors and baby have been spending some quality time away from the general public said to have the intelligence of a 4-year-old human They don’t go so far as my friend the kākā; my hair remains unsniffed Time with the birds is a great way for visitors to start a trip to Ngā Manu and it’s even better if combined with several other encounters available at the reserve they could also poke their nose in at the tuna (eel) feeding where some lucky guests can hold a feeding stick over the writhing jumble of slithery bodies in the water and watch as the eels blindly try to snatch their lunch amazingly travel all the way to Tonga along the sea floor to lay their eggs before they die The currents bring the fertilised eggs back to New Zealand which is the sole reason this species of eel is found here and nowhere else in the world I have a go dangling some meat over the feeding pond impressed by their strong bodies as they yank on the end of the stick and peering at geckos and tuatara as they relax in the warmth Ngā Manu has beautiful bush-filled walkways around the reserve and there are numerous spacious benches throughout for those who want to sit and soak in the birdsong Unlike the rest of the guests on the reserve that day when the gates close at night I’ll still be here staying at a tiny cottage on the pond’s edge Theo’s Cottage is available for booking for anyone keen to enjoy a quiet night totally alone with nature The cosy cabin is small but has everything you need and a selection of local snacks and breakfast items I spend an hour or so relaxing in the accommodation as activity winds down around the reserve and soon it’s time to get ready for my third experience - the night-time kiwi encounter A group of about eight guests gather in the reserve’s gift shop as dusk falls listening to the knowledgeable volunteer guides explain the different types of kiwi and the dangers they face today the group heads quietly out to the kiwi enclosure which is lit with dark red lamps that aren’t strong enough to disturb the kiwi We speak in the softest of whispers as the kiwi snuffle around in the dirt A pair of solemn ruru also share this enclosure We almost don’t notice one perched motionlessly on a nearby post Our guide uses a pair of tongs to place some food on another post for the ruru the food disappears the moment the tongs release it or gardening pads in the front for guests to kneel right at the low barrier of the enclosure seemingly unaware of the breathless audience watching his every move After some time he seems done with this spot and with a comical little bounce into the air he turns tail and dashes back into the shadows and so with big smiles we disappear into the dark of the night too A quad bike crash in rural South Canterbury has left one person dead My Vaccine Pass requirements have not been set for this event Minty Productions presents:The Caramello Blues Band tap your feet and have a fantastic evening with these two amazing acts featuring incredibly talented singers and musicians!Seating provided Door sales can't be guaranteed—tickets to be purchased online via Under the Radar finishes 9pm.We can't wait to see you there Tory Whanau launches Golden Mile project yesterday Become a Wellington.Scoop Supporter » The Waikanae Mahi mō te Taiao project was established four years ago as part of the Government’s Jobs for Nature programme building on an existing environmental partnership between mana whenua The project aimed to train and develop kaimahi in skills like environmental restoration The injection of Jobs for Nature funding boosted the partnership’s work to restore the health of the Waikanae River and achieve social outcomes An independent review of Jobs for Nature has found that around $4 of benefits have been delivered for every dollar invested across the DOC-funded projects The project has been managed by local firm Groundtruth says a key aim of the project has been enabling rangatahi to train and work as kaitiaki on their awa and whenua we have achieved so much for our people and for our taiao,” says Kristie “Our kaimahi have learned a wide range of skills Many have also reconnected with their past and heritage and discovered new life paths and future goals “We have learned to appreciate that a healthy taiao requires a lot of boots on the ground The hard mahi of weed control and planting has brought our whole whanau on a journey of wellbeing we all have aroha for this place we call home.” The outputs from the project include over 22,000 riparian plants and over 100,000 other native plants planted 67 trainees across 10 groups graduated through a 3-month course receiving unit standard training and hands-on learning Many of these tauira have gone on to become kaimahi on project work and to find employment in the conservation sector and beyond Kāpiti Coast District mayor Janet Holborow said the great success of the partnership has laid the foundations for future collaborations “It shows how we can all do better together,” says Janet “The skills and connections gained by kaimahi have wider ripples far beyond themselves and this project They’re able to go on to make significant contributions to their whānau That’s something we can all benefit from.” Ātiawa ki Whakarongotai is now looking to transition this project into an iwi-led environmental business to support continued delivery of employment and environmental outcomes at Waikanae The legacy also continues on the more than 2000 hectares of the catchment supported by property or work plans guiding their restoration over years to come More on the cost/benefit assessment - Jobs for Nature impact assessment  Email: media@doc.govt.nz The Jobs for Nature programme helps to revitalise communities through nature-based employment and to stimulate the economy post COVID-19 Kaimahi arawai training with DoC at Maungakōtukutuku A gathering tomorrow at Otaraua Park on the Kāpiti Coast marks the transition of the Waikanae Jobs for Nature project into an ongoing iwi-run business and legacy supporting nature in the Waikanae River catchment The Waikanae Mahi mo te Taiao project was established four years ago as part of the Government’s Jobs for Nature programme Jobs for Nature shows $4 benefit for every $1 invested The injection of Jobs for Nature funding boosted the partnership’s work to restore the health of the Waikanae River and achieve social outcomes An independent review of Jobs for Nature has found that about $4 of benefits have been delivered for every dollar invested across the DoC-funded projects we have achieved so much for our people and for our taiao,” says Kristie “Our kaimahi have learned a wide range of skills “Many have also reconnected with their past and heritage “We have learned to appreciate that a healthy taiao requires a lot of boots on the ground “The hard mahi of weed control and planting has brought our whole whānau on a journey of wellbeing we all have aroha for this place we call home.” The outputs from the project include more than 22,000 riparian plants and more than 100,000 other native plants planted Sixty-seven trainees across 10 groups graduated through a three-month course Many of these tauira (trainees) have gone on to become kaimahi on project work Kāpiti Coast District Mayor Janet Holborow “It shows how we can all do better together,” says Holborow “The skills and connections gained by kaimahi have wider ripples far beyond themselves and this project “They’re able to go on to make significant contributions to their whānau That’s something we can all benefit from.” The legacy also continues on the more than 2000ha of the catchment supported by property or work plans guiding their restoration over years to come Wharehoka Wano will lead Te Tōpuni Ngārahu a body representing the region's eight iwi Teenager Alana Reardon is a rising scootering star and produced a stunning result against her adult competitors at the recent World Championships in Rome With no junior girls category at the World Champs the Waikanae rider had to enter the open women's class where she would be competing against professionals But that did not phase the 15-year-old Paraparaumu College student finishing sixth in the final to be crowned one of the top 10 riders in the world I thought I was going to come last or something But then I got into the finals and did really well," Reardon said "I just kept calm and stuck with my run and did all the tricks I did in my semi-finals I was pretty nervous when I dropped in and when I completed a good clean run it was a massive relief "I got to meet some new riders from England and Europe and it was really cool to be with all the pros again and hang out with them Reardon travelled to Rome with her mum and dad and had very little time to come to grips with the skate park used for the World Champs It was surreal and the skate park was big and steep and deep One of the ramps in the bowl was really deep and the biggest ramp I've been on," Reardon said "I had to adjust fast to it as we only had two practices One hour of practice and then right into it." That short practice time meant Reardon had to come up with her "run" in advance "The week before the competition we drew a picture of the skate park (in Rome) and planned what tricks I would do and I would make a line up and create a run," Reardon said The judges give the scooter rider's scores based on style the cleanness of their run and using as much of the park as possible While Reardon was the only New Zealander in the women's final she did have moral support from one of her idols she's a local in Napier and a pro rider and I really look up to her I've known her for a while since I've been scootering and we often hang out." Madsen came second in the women's category at last year's World Champs in Madrid but an injury stopped her from competing in 2024 Reardon's rise in the sport has been rapid with the Kāpiti local only taking up scootering a few years ago "I got into it through my older brother Liam he used to ride scooters and I watched him do it and wanted to ride scooters as well I got my first scooter when I was 12 years old "Doing all the tricks is really fun to do and feels really good And you get to hang out with all your friends at the skate park and meet new people." who believes that passion has helped her progress so quickly Reardon said her aim is to become a professional scooter rider I'll continue to do some more international competitions and try to get better "There's another competition in Napier coming up for qualifying for a big overseas event Her ultimate goal is to get the sport and herself to the Olympics I would love to see that happen and love to compete at an Olympics." Reardon also hopes to encourage other girls and women into the sport "Lots of little kids see me at the local Waikanae skate park and I hope I can inspire them "I would like to see more girl riders start scootering It's a pretty scary sport but it's a lot of fun and I'd like to see more people try it." We have regular online commentary of local and international sport Sport RSS Some of the rat traps Waikanae people will have Waikanae locals passionate about conservation and eager to take action for a predator-free community are invited to the Predator Free Waikanae Open Day This event promises a day of community connection and even a bit of friendly competition - all in the spirit of making Waikanae a safer haven for our native flora and fauna Organised by Predator Free Waikanae in partnership with the Waikanae Lions Club the open day will mark the start of an ambitious campaign to distribute 100 free rat traps (for Waikanae residents only) with a longer-term goal of deploying 1000 traps across Waikanae over the next three years residents can directly contribute to protecting local wildlife and support a larger mission of sustainability and conservation Trap demonstrations and expert tips: Whether you’re a seasoned trapper or new to predator control and demonstrate techniques to maximize effectiveness Rat-catching competition: Join the Rat Pack and compete for exciting prizes in a new rat-catching contest In collaboration with Ngā Manu Nature Reserve this friendly competition invites participants to make a tangible impact on local conservation efforts while enjoying some fun rivalry Street ambassador programme: Want to do even more Ambassadors play a key role by distributing traps in their neighbourhoods and offering support to neighbours who may not be comfortable handling traps themselves This initiative fosters a supportive community network working together toward a predator-free Waikanae There will also be a barbecue and plenty of opportunities to connect with like-minded locals This initiative is supported by the Waikanae Community Board More info: email predatorfreewaikanae@gmail.com How Chelsea Gill created a family-friendly business A residential development is planned for 14-16 Ngarara Rd A public meeting is being held to discuss “the threat” to the future of the Waikanae garden precinct’s character The meeting was sparked after residents’ concerns about a 20-dwelling development proposed on a double section at 14-16 Ngarara Rd that has had resource consent granted associated earthworks and vegetation modification A meeting flyer said the development was the first major infill development in the Waikanae garden precinct enabled by new rules abolishing the special area designation and allowing multiple homes on tiny sections “The level of change will indelibly undermine the character of the precinct and creates precedence for other developers to do the same thing.” It said “developments of this type” would have potential effects on natural character The objective of the meeting was to ensure “that democracy prevails and that Kāpiti Coast District Council publicly notifies these developments so that residents know they are planned and make relevant objections in a public arena where necessary” The second objective was that “previously existing protections on the precinct are reinstated to preserve its unique character” The flyer said the Waikanae Garden Precinct Protection Society was being formed and a draft constitution would be presented at the meeting It also said it wasn’t a nimby (not-in-my-backyard) objection “How can allowing 20 dwellings on a double section in the middle of our precinct be considered less than minor and not be publicly notified?” Resident Hamish Douglas said “deep disappointment” was felt by many in the area “Despite numerous concerns raised about the impact this project will have on the character and heritage of the area the community was denied the opportunity to have their voices heard known for its historical significance and unique greenery risks being fundamentally altered by developments like this one worry that this sets a dangerous precedent for further intensification in similar areas across the Kāpiti Coast “We urge the council to reconsider how such decisions are made in the future and to ensure public involvement in matters that will shape the character of our communities for generations to come.” Council regulatory and environment group manager James Jefferson said “When deciding whether a consent should be publicly notified the council must consider a number of matters that are set out by the Resource Management Act 1991 (RMA) “Having reviewed the application and the additional information that was provided as part of the resource consenting process it has been determined that the application meets the requirements of the Resource Management Act 1991 and the provisions of the Operative District Plan 2021 council has granted consent for the application on a non-notified basis subject to conditions medium-density housing comprising up to three dwellings per section and up to 11m high is a permitted activity in all new subdivisions “New rules for medium-density housing came into effect on 1 September 2023 following consultation on plan change 2 “It’s important to note that the resource consent application for 14-16 Ngarara Rd is for subdivision “No building consents have been sought yet.” The public meeting is at the Waikanae Bowling Club on Thursday Greater Wellington Regional Council is keen to undertake gravel extraction in the lower Waikanae River Greater Wellington Regional Council is in the early stages of scoping river works in the lower Waikanae River inside a Department of Conservation (DoC) reserve “The purpose of the works are to address riverbank erosion caused by the formation of a gravel island within the river,” Greater Wellington director delivery Jack Mace said “Once Greater Wellington has scoped the works based on modelling we will engage with DoC and our mana whenua partners “While we would like to undertake the works as soon as possible they will not go ahead until we have secured support from mana whenua and DoC.” Greater Wellington undertook river works in the reserve in April 2007 under a resource consent that expired that year we undertook river works near the new State Highway 1 road bridge under the existing maintenance resource consent we are planning more river works in the same area.” Former Kāpiti representative on the regional council who has been pushing for remedial action in the lower river for the last 12 years to restore the river’s health and reduce the threat of flooding said while Greater Wellington’s intervention was long overdue “it is most welcome” A “misunderstanding” has seen hundreds of new plants “Our dunes provide vital protection from the sea and important habitats for shorebirds and native insects,” Kāpiti Coast District Council parks open space and environment manager Gareth Eloff said “Council works with communities and volunteer groups up and down our coast to remove weeds and provide suitable native species for planting to stabilise the dunes – we simply could not do this important mahi on our own there has been a misunderstanding about what native species would be planted and we accept that we could have been clearer in our communications with residents on this occasion we’ve decided the best approach is to move the new plantings to another site in the district where they’ll still go to good use.” In total around 650 plants have been removed and replanted in other parks and reserves Early bird tickets (www.kapitifoodfair.co.nz/tickets) close on Sunday The food fair takes place in Mazengarb Reserve The next Repair Cafe takes place in the Raumati South Memorial Hall November 17 from 10am to 1pm (last items registered 12.30pm) Items that can be helped with include sewing and mending The William Shakespeare play A Midsummer Night’s Dream will be performed in Paekākāriki’s Campbell Park on February 21 “We are looking for talented people to act stage management to help us run the show,” director Shona Jaunas said Interested? Contact Shona on 021 905886 or email shona_violin@hotmail.com Boy racers meet for burnout on Old State Highway 1 at Waikanae at the weekend An investigation is under way after a man was injured during a large gathering of antisocial road users in Waikanae on Saturday night Police responded to reports of a massive gathering of vehicles and antisocial behaviour on Old State Highway 1 about 11.30pm ambulance services informed them that a man had been struck by a vehicle performing burnouts the antisocial road users blocked emergency services from reaching the injured man and the vehicle believed to be involved fled the scene,” a police spokesperson said The man was taken to the hospital in moderate condition The vehicles involved in the gathering then scattered to various locations Police worked throughout the Wellington region to disperse those continuing to engage in unsafe driving Authorities are now investigating the incident and working to identify those responsible Responding to a social media post by Beach FM Ōtaki MP Tim Costley urged people to stop attending the gatherings “I’m very sorry to hear someone was injured These people are being idiots with cars and I have no time for this behaviour I’m glad police take it so seriously but it uses up their resources which we don’t need,” he said “To anyone thinking of going to watch this: don’t They’re riding on luck and it is the bystanders who get hurt Kāpiti Mayor Janet Holborow told KC News there was work underway to try to resolve the ongoing problem “We’re trying to find solutions,” said Holborow “It is a real challenge and the pressure these activities put on our emergency services is completely unacceptable.” Anyone with information is urged to call 105 and quote reference number P061770410 Tips can also be shared anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 0800 555 111 Sign up to The Daily H a free newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday An artist's impression of the upgraded Waikanae Boating Club The Waikanae Boating Club will undergo a $2.1 million reconstruction of its clubhouse following a unanimous green light from members - 53 years after it was first built Club commodore Alex Laplanche said the improvements will make the clubhouse a fit-for-purpose facility that meets the needs of a growing population following the demolition of the Kāpiti Coast District Council’s attached old toilet block and the removal of a coastguard shed within the current club building He said both of those moves will increase space Preparatory work will start almost immediately beginning with the groundwork necessary for the installation of a new separate five-berth automated toilet block by the council and the construction of a separate new shed for the coastguard rescue vessel Laplanche said this would “free up space to redevelop the existing club building into a modern clubhouse with attractive facilities” “It’s taken seven years to get to this point including five years for resource consent and one year for building consent and there was a heartfelt sigh of relief from members at a packed special general meeting on Sunday for finally getting the project under way.” Laplanche wanted to pay tribute to the planning and financial teams who put the deal together our club provides the only boat launching ramp watchtower and radio station to keep boaties safe and the only coastguard rescue service.” He said the club is a valued social hub for the local community with many community functions being held there The club aims to remain open during the reconstruction process but Laplanche said there will be interruptions to some services at times Reconstructions will be delayed from time to time by summer holidays but is expected to be completed in May/June next year Waikanae's open and Under-19 men's crews had a great weekend at the North Island IRB Championships at Papamoa Waikanae’s inflatable rescue boat crews came home with six gold medals after dominating two divisions of the North Island IRB championships at Pāpāmoa at the weekend amassed 66 points across the titles to finish fifth overall out of two dozen clubs Sunset Beach SLSC from Port Waikato continued their fine record of success by winning top club on 150 points Waikanae were in terrific form in the open men’s and Under-19 men’s divisions crewman Oliver Shivnan and patient Michaela Clearwater won the open men’s single rescue and mass rescue titles got silver in the tube rescue and bronze in the assembly race The U19 men’s crew of Hamish Swann (driver) Taran Wilson and Clearwater won the single rescue Wilson and Clearwater won the mixed teams' title Rodney Richards and Michelle Mitchell won silver and two bronze medals in the newly formed masters division “It was a fantastic result overall to see our crews performing so well at the highest level,” Waikanae’s IRB head coach Connor Mitchell said the result at the weekend is a great boost three weeks out from our New Zealand championships to be held at Waipu Cove in Northland.” BIZminton 2025 starts this week for social and competitive badminton players Waikanae Chartered Club’s 8ball adjunct has had a remarkable renaissance leading to success at the national level It wasn’t long ago when the adjunct was at a low ebb “It had got to the stage where it was just a few blokes knocking around a ball,” president Terry Morris said About six years ago he decided to get involved and started enticing back those who had been involved before Morris said the club’s adjunct had “grown hugely” in the past five years from about 20 members to 70 members — male and female “We have six players now ranked within New Zealand’s top 50 of Clubs NZ 8ball rankings nationally.” The club sent a team to the recent annual Clubs NZ national 8ball tournament featured 108 pairs combinations and 288 singles players competing from 48 varying clubs nationally The chartered club won the doubles team and overall teams trophies and despite getting pipped for the singles trophy by a point it was declared the champion club at the tournament The doubles team comprised Riley James and Brent Wells Morris said there was a lot of excitement when the players showed the trophies at the club He said it was a great achievement by the team including those who didn’t make it into the team “Everyone has played a part in the success.” “Last year we were the highest in the North Island for the most top 200 players and this year was a combination of that successful building” Morris said creating a competitive yet friendly environment had been important as well as some important things Last year the club received a Waikanae Community Board grant which went toward hosting six-time world champion pool player Mick Hill “He provided a coaching seminar and matches against our players.” Morris said the club features regular updates about the adjunct which “keep engagement levels high” “This also helps when we open entries to our three major open tournaments The club had also completed its second year of running a youth academy for juniors 8 to 18 years old There’s a mid-week invitation-only tournament for the top players from around the Wellington region “A lot of those players will come on other nights and play against our members “When you start getting good players in your stable the club’s six tables were “probably the best tables in the North Island A school in the lower North Island says all its students are safe after a driver fleeing police ploughed through its grounds In a post on social media Kapakapanui School in Waikanae said the vehicle "crashed through our front gates in an attempt to evade the police" on Friday "The car continued across the school field and turf and crashed through our rear fence then continued All children were inside at the time and remained inside." Photographs uploaded by the school showed a broken fence and gate The police said a man has been taken into custody after a vehicle was seen being driven erratically in Waikanae around 11am The vehicle collided into the Kapakapanui School security gates and a fence Police located the vehicle shortly after and the driver was taken in to custody There were no injuries to any students or teachers at the school Italian-Croatian pianist Ida Pelliccioli will perform in Waikanae in February next year The Waikanae Music Society’s 2025 season has been announced The year opens on February 16 with a piano recital from young Italian-Croatian pianist Ida Pelliccioli This will be her first visit to New Zealand and her programme will include music by Beethoven On March 16 there will be a mix of mainly French Impressionist music from the Aurum Trio (flute will feature soprano Lilia Carpinelli and pianist Matteo Napoli performing a range of Italian music from the Baroque period to the great operatic arias of Verdi and Puccini and ending with a feast of Italian folk song The Amici Ensemble are a permanent and popular feature of the Waikanae series Donald Armstrong will be joined by Alexander McFarlane Andrew Joyce and Jian Liu for a concert of piano quartets by Francaix the society will host a concert by an Australian String Quartet for the first time The Flanders Quartet will also come with a bonus – two of New Zealand’s most treasured musicians will be part of this concert Violinist Wilma Smith is a member of the quartet and pianist Michael Houstoun will be joining them to perform Dvorak’s brilliant piano quintet The Ghost Piano Trio will return on August 3 to perform the work that gave the group its name – Beethoven’s famous “Ghost Trio” The programme also includes music by Takemitsu and Shostakovich Waikanae Music Society Charitable Trust each year awards scholarships to outstanding young New Zealand musicians to help them further their studies September 21 with a performance of Schubert’s Octet in F major The well-known Aroha String Quartet are joined in this performance by four NZSO and Orchestra Wellington musicians on clarinet All concerts will be held in the Waikanae Memorial Hall at 2.30pm on Sunday afternoons For more information, pick up a brochure from libraries or visit the website www.waikanaemusic.org.nz Enquiries can be made via phone on 04 905 6070 or 022 345 5316 A car crashed through a school in Waikanae on Friday morning A mother says it is “very lucky” nobody was harmed after a fleeing driver ploughed through a school’s grounds The vehicle drove through the grounds of Kapakapanui School in Waikanae on Friday morning The primary school said on social media the vehicle “continued across the school field and turf and crashed through our rear fence” “All children were inside at the time and remained inside.” Images uploaded by the school show a broken fence and gate The mother of a 10-year-old student says the incident happened minutes before the “entire field would’ve been covered with children” out for break time and the incident left them anxious and emotional he would have mowed down a lot of kids on his way through the school.” said the teachers immediately put classrooms into lockdown and she described their response as “brilliant” “I know one teacher grabbed a kid and sort of threw the kid in the class and locked the door behind her.” She said the crash left extensive damage to numerous fences The event was described as “totally unexpected” as the school is away from the main thoroughfare in a residential area “It’s pretty disappointing to see the prevalence of crime within New Zealand at the moment It doesn’t feel like any overly safe place to be.” Police said the man was taken into custody after driving “erratically” through Waikanae about 11am Last year, a car driving erratically in Auckland narrowly missed a student before pulling a U-turn and driving along a footpath and berm where another two students were almost struck Sign up to The Daily H, a free newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday. A quad bike crash in rural South Canterbury has left one person dead. Predator Free Waikanae is under way focusing on stoats, rats and mice. A Predator Free Waikanae project is under way focusing on eliminating the rising population of stoats, rats, and mice, living in the area. The new community service is being spearheaded by the Waikanae Lions Club in partnership with Menz Shed Kāpiti. The NZ Transport Agency has given the green light for the first step of the project which will see a trapping line extending 3.5km from Pururi St to the Ngā Manu Nature Reserve. Volunteers from the Waikanae Lions Club, Menz Shed Kāpiti, and the wider community will regularly monitor and maintain the traps. This initiative was spearheaded by Alf Clear, a member of the Waikanae Lions and Menz Shed Kāpiti, who proposed the project after observing stoats on the cycleway beside the expressway. “The Waikanae area has seen a worrying rise in stoat and other pest sightings,” Waikanae Lions Club’s Kevin Sheppard said. “Both the Ngāa Manu Nature Reserve and Forest and Bird have confirmed this trend. “One significant factor contributing to the increase in these predators is the expressway itself. “The new cycleways and walkways running parallel to the expressway have inadvertently become corridors for stoats, allowing them to migrate deeper into Kāpiti.” Sheppard said the Department of Conservation had identified stoats as public enemy number one for New Zealand’s native birds. “These relentless hunters pose a significant threat to species such as wrybills, New Zealand dotterels, black-fronted terns, young kiwi, and any other birds that cross their path. “DoC statistics indicate that only about 5% of Northland’s brown kiwi chicks reach adulthood, with stoats and feral cats being their primary predators.” The Waikanae Lions’ pest trapping project was a critical first step in combating the issue, he said. “By targeting stoats and other pests along the Kāpiti Expressway, the initiative aims to create a safer environment for native bird species. “This project joins the efforts of other existing trapping programmes run by enthusiastic volunteers, the Greater Wellington Regional Council, and various other organisations.” Sheppard said volunteers were essential to the success of the project. “Regular monitoring and maintenance of the traps will ensure their effectiveness in reducing pest populations. “The community’s involvement reflects a collective commitment to preserving the region’s natural heritage and demonstrates the power of local action in conservation efforts.” As the project progresses, there are plans to invite the entire Waikanae community to participate in Predator Free Waikanae. “Residents are encouraged to stay informed and consider volunteering, contributing to a co-ordinated effort to protect and restore the local environment.” How Chelsea Gill created a family-friendly business. The 500sqm seven-bedroom house boasts all the mod cons expected in trophy homes with a few extras that are out of the ordinary: a 200sqm wraparound deck and a “self-cleaning swimming pool The house sits on 1.5 hectares at 87 Rutherford Drive She told OneRoof the house was a standout property in the market “We anticipate this property will redefine the local market It is world-class and single-level on a grand scale,” she said She declined to put a price on the property saying the current RV was irrelevant and did not reflect the value of the finished building She told OneRoof it would go for an “upper-tier” price The luxury home was the lockdown idea of owners Lanita and Paul Mulholland who operate Wellington building firm Mulholland Construction - House-hunting for diplomats: I had one property turned down because of sniper fears - Tiny town’s pub saved - ‘if we closed it, where would we drink?’ - Mansion that’s too dangerous to step inside finally sells “We thought we might not be able to travel to Australia or the Pacific Islands so we decided to buy a piece of land and create our own resort,” Lanita told OneRoof “We thought friends and family from around the country could come In the 18 months they’ve lived in the house (construction took about three years and the family moved in before the house was finished) they have hosted parties of up to 120 people Two sets of friends have held their weddings on the front lawn which edges the beach and there was enough room for giant blow-up castles for their children’s birthday parties and the couple have rarely been without guests in the house The Rutherford Drive house was conceived as a resort for friends and family The entertaining area includes a covered deck and a full bar “We had [singer] Shaun Preston play on his baby grand piano on the deck and then a rock band set up on a different deck,” Paul said The couple tapped their own architecture company Paul said their company has built some of the most expensive homes on the coast in Raumati Beach’s exclusive Goodwood Estates which still holds the area’s top price of $4.45 million The property was the owners' lockdown project The couple are proud of their creation but said they were selling up to start another project You can’t just go down the road and replace it,” Paul said Randall said the house would appeal to those who highly value their health and well-being it can be sold fully furnished,” she added - 87 Rutherford Drive, Waikanae, Wellington, is for sale, deadline closing October 8 Waikanae driver Hamish Swann and crewman Taran Wilson in action at the North Island IRB Championships. They are part of a small but powerful Waikanae team competing at the IRB nationals. Photo / Jamie Troughton-Dscribe Media Waikanae are gunning for top three honours at the BP New Zealand IRB (Inflatable Rescue Boat) Championships and on recent form they should achieve it. The champs, being held at Waipu Cove north of Auckland, have attracted a record 123 crews from 30 clubs across the country and three of those will be wearing the Waikanae cap. Kaiaponi Farms Waikanae achieved six gold medals, three silver and three bronze medals at the North Island champs at Pāpāmoa earlier this month. Their small team of three crews finished fifth overall, performing particularly strongly in the open and Under-19 men competitions. At the nationals, which start on Friday, Connor Mitchell, crewman Oliver Shivnan and patient Michaela Clearwater will be looking to add to their open men’s division medal haul from the North Islands. They took out the open men’s single rescue and mass rescue titles and placed in the tube rescue and assembly finals. The U19 men’s crew of Hamish Swann (driver), Taran Wilson and Clearwater will be driving hard again in their division. They won the single rescue, tube rescue and assembly at the North Islands, and were second in the mass rescue. The combined Waikanae team of Mitchell, Shivnan, Swann, Wilson and Clearwater won the mixed teams’ title that weekend. Waikanae’s reformed masters crew of Eric Clearwater, Rodney Richards and Michelle Mitchell will look to add to the silver and two bronze medals they picked up at Pāpāmoa. Waikanae IRB coach Connor Mitchell said that success was a great boost for them going into the nationals, but they realised they would have to lift their performance level even higher. “It’s going to be fast and technical racing this weekend, with no surf, over a short course,” he said. “We are going to have to get all the little technical details of IRB racing correct. “It will be tougher than the North Islands, but we’re ready for it.” He rates the U19 crew as strong contenders for titles. Mitchell and now Auckland-based Shivnan have been among the most consistent crews in the country for the past 10 years. “Considering Ollie and I are living in different parts of the country now, we are still firing,” Mitchell said. “We’re hoping to do well ourselves again this weekend.” The masters crew showed plenty of promise at Pāpāmoa, he said. “So they could score some national medals, too.” The competition starts midday Friday with the tube rescue races in all divisions. BIZminton 2025 starts this week for social and competitive badminton players. Students of a lower North Island school are safe after a fleeing driver smashed through its grounds this morning. Waikanae's Kapakapanui School posted images of damage caused by the fleeing driver to its Facebook page. "This morning a car crashed through our front gates in an attempt to evade the police," a post on the page read. "The car continued across the school field and turf and crashed through our rear fence then continued. "All children were inside at the time and remained inside. Police have apprehended the driver." Police confirmed officers took the alleged driver into custody shortly after they smashed through the school grounds. "A man has been taken into custody after a vehicle was seen being driven erratically in Waikanae around 11am this morning," a police spokesperson said. "The vehicle collided into the Kapakapanui School security gates and a fence, before the vehicle left the scene. "Police located the vehicle shortly after and the driver was taken in to custody. "There were no injuries to any students or teachers at the school. Inquires are continuing." Search underway for Masterton man John Rafferty was last seen at Masterton Railway Station at about midday on May 4 New Zealand Crooks culture first order of business for Mike Bush in Victoria Bush picked to take over as Victoria's chief commissioner after months of top-level staffing woes Crime and Justice Police experts warn 'emerging risk' of 3D-printed firearms rising Technology has outpaced a currently underway review of the Arms Act and criminals are already taking advantage US prisons bureau has challenges — reopening Alcatraz is now another Juliana Herrera's family tell inquest: 'Stop repeating avoidable mistakes' was murdered in January 2022 by her neighbour Health Arrest after person assaulted A nurse leaving her shift last month was held up at gunpoint outside the grounds of the hospital Film industry anxiously awaits details on Trump's 100% movie tariff 28 mins ago Search underway for Masterton man, 74, missing since Sunday 37 mins ago Crooks, culture first order of business for Mike Bush in Victoria 40 mins ago Charges filed against Woolworths over pricing, misleading specials 59 mins ago Police, experts warn 'emerging risk' of 3D-printed firearms rising 6:33pm Trade war: Sir John Key's 'optimism' on Trump's next tariff moves 17 mins ago 1US woman who disappeared for more than six decades found safe Sole survivor of poisoned beef Wellington takes the stand Govt halts all current pay equity claims, makes it harder to lodge new ones Two men's shared name brings years of trouble and a hefty bill to one Kiwi motorcyclist killed in 11-bike British Supersport crash Photos: Lorde among stars at 2025 Met Gala A$AP Rocky and Rihanna also revealed they are expecting their third child. Two arrested over alleged plot targeting Lady Gaga concert in RioBrazilian police said they thwarted an alleged bomb attack planned for Lady Gaga's concert on Copacabana beach in Rio de Janeiro. Lady Gaga rocks Copacabana Beach with free concert for over 2 million fansSun, May 4 Lorde announces new album name, dateThu, May 1 Kim Kardashian to testify in Paris trial over 2016 armed robberyMon, Apr 28 Chubby Checker, Outkast, Cyndi Lauper join Rock & Roll Hall of FameMon, Apr 28 Kim Kardashian to testify in Paris trial over 2016 armed robberyMon A search and rescue operation is underway for a Masterton man in his 70s missing since Sunday John Rafferty was last seen at Masterton Railway Station about midday on May 4 The 74-year-old did not board a train and left on foot about 20 minutes later Matheson said it was possible Rafferty was staying with a friend but police and loved ones "want to know he’s safe" and John doesn’t have his cell phone or wallet," he said A search team and a helicopter has been out looking for the missing man "We are really keen to know that he’s safe." Police have released an image from CCTV showing Rafferty on a station platform on the day of his disappearance He was wearing a blue jacket with 'NASA' written on the back Anyone who saw him was asked to contact police on 111 or online at 105 if there was Information after the fact The next top cop of the troubled Victoria police force embraces his "outsider" status to curb its leadership malaise and has a stern warning for crooks Former New Zealand Police commissioner Mike Bush won the race to become Victoria's chief commissioner after months of top-level staffing woes The 40-year police veteran steps into the role on June 27 with a five-year contract The Kiwi conceded the job will be no picnic with Victoria's crime rate hitting an almost decade-high in 2024 everyone knows that," he told reporters today "These crime issues are actually global they are quite similar wherever you go but it's not good enough just to turn up after the act Rising youth crime and high-profile cases of alleged offenders committing crimes while on bail spurred the Victorian government to strengthen laws in March Bush said he was familiar with the crackdown but bail laws were just one part of the solution to tackling youth crime along with a "prevention mindset" He retired from the NZ police force in 2020 after joining in 1978 and spending his final six years in the top job Whakaari/White Island volcano eruption and Covid-19 pandemic were among the biggest crises Bush confronted during his tenure Bush also made headlines in 2022 after it emerged he had a past drink-driving conviction when unsuccessfully applying to become head of the UK's Metropolitan Police Former New Zealand police minister Stuart Nash describedr Bush as hard but fair He said Bush regularly met with police forces across the Tasman in his previous role and recalled travelling with him to every district across New Zealand once a year to chew the fat with communities and then we all had biscuits and a cup of tea," Nash told AAP "Mike is someone who had deep credibility in policing." The state government has not handed the reins of Victoria Police to an outsider since former NSW Police assistant commissioner Christine Nixon in 2001 The Kiwi was happy to wear the "outsider" tag and is already hatching plans to hit the ground running "I've got a lot to do to come up to speed," Bush said "Culture is a consequence of leadership." establishing relationships with community groups amid rising tensions and increasing police visibility on the beat were among his other top initial priorities Victoria Police was thrust into leadership turmoil in February with a no-confidence vote from officers costing chief commissioner Shane Patton his job Emergency Management Commissioner Rick Nugent became acting chief and expressed an interest in making the move permanent before throwing in the towel in April Deputy Commissioner Robert Hill will serve in an acting capacity until Bush takes over Bush intends to speak with Patton before starting and said he wouldn't shy away from pushing back if he disagreed with the government Premier Jacinta Allan said a recruitment agency was hired and instructed to find a leader capable of addressing the "challenges" plaguing the force "Mike Bush is the best person for the job," she said whose union led the no-confidence vote against Patton following a bitter pay dispute admitted there was a disconnect between members and leaders The state police union secretary welcomed Mr Bush's appointment and pledge to listen to the mounting workforce concerns "We have a police force that is currently under-resourced that needs fresh officers," he said Eleven inmate deaths in less than two months A US$3 billion (NZ$5 billion) repair backlog a stunning directive from President Donald Trump for the crisis-plagued federal Bureau of Prisons to “REBUILD AND OPEN ALCATRAZ!” — the notorious penitentiary on an island in San Francisco Bay that last held inmates more than 60 years ago Even as the Bureau of Prisons struggles with short staffing chronic violence and crumbling infrastructure at its current facilities Trump is counting on the agency to fulfill his vision of rebooting the infamously inescapable prison known in movies and pop culture as The Rock Trump declared in a social media post that a “substantially enlarged and rebuilt” Alcatraz will house the nation’s “most ruthless and violent Offenders” Newly appointed Bureau of Prisons Director William K Marshall III said that the agency “will vigorously pursue all avenues to support and implement the President’s agenda” and that he has ordered “an immediate assessment to determine our needs and the next steps” We look forward to restoring this powerful symbol of law and justice,” Marshall said in a statement “We will be actively working with our law enforcement and other federal partners to reinstate this very important mission.” an 8.9-hectare spit of land with views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline was once the crown jewel of the federal prison system and home to some of the nation’s most notorious criminals including gangsters Al Capone and George Machine Gun Kelly But skyrocketing repair and supply costs compelled the Justice Department to close the prison in 1963 and the Bureau of Prisons has long since replaced Alcatraz with modern penitentiaries including a maximum-security prison in Florence The former and perhaps future penitentiary is now a popular tourist attraction and a national historic landmark It’s controlled by the National Park Service as part of the Golden Gate National Recreation Area meaning the Bureau of Prisons could be in for an interagency tug of war if it tries to wrest away control of the island Trump’s Alcatraz directive is yet another challenge for the Bureau of Prisons as it struggles to fix lingering problems while responding to the president’s priorities on incarceration and immigrant detention includes taking in thousands of immigration detainees under an agreement with the Department of Homeland Security The problems at the Bureau of Prisons transcend administrations and facilities An ongoing Associated Press investigation has uncovered deep previously unreported flaws within the Bureau of Prisons over the last few years including widespread criminal activity by employees and severe understaffing that has hampered responses to emergencies then-President Joe Biden signed a law strengthening oversight of the agency It remains the Justice Department’s largest agency 155,000 inmates and an annual budget of about US$8 billion (NZ$13.4 billion) but the Trump administration’s cost-cutting measures have eliminated some pay bonuses that were credited with retaining and attracting new staff That has resulted in long overtime shifts for some workers and the continued use of a policy known as augmentation teachers and other workers are pressed into duty to guard inmates A Bureau of Prisons official told Congress at a hearing in February that more than 4000 beds within the system — the equivalent of at least two full prisons — are unusable because of dangerous conditions like leaking or failing roofs a 37-year-old Florida businessman who was found dead April 28 in a suspected suicide at a federal jail in Miami He was awaiting trial on charges that he kidnapped and killed his estranged wife in Spain inmate Ramadhan Jaabir Justice was killed in a fight at the federal penitentiary in Pollock where he was serving a nearly 11-year sentence for a conviction related to an armed robbery As Trump was ordering Alcatraz’s reopening correctional officers at the same Miami jail were fighting to curb the spread of tuberculosis and Covid-19 isolating inmates after they tested positive for the diseases immigration detainees at the facility ripped out a fire sprinkler and flooded a holding cell during a lengthy intake process the Federal Correctional Institution in Dublin has sat idle for more than a year after the Bureau of Prisons cleared it of inmates in the wake of rampant sexual abuse by employees the agency made the closure permanent and idled six prison camps across the country to address “significant challenges crumbling infrastructure and limited budgetary resources” While Trump hails Alcatraz as a paragon of the federal prison system’s cherished past other facilities stand as reminders of its recent troubles They include the federal jail in Manhattan which remains idle after Jeffrey Epstein’s suicide there in 2019 exposed deep flaws in its operations where 23 inmates have been charged in recent months with crimes ranging from smuggling weapons in a Doritos bag to the stabbing last month of a man convicted in the killing of hip-hop legend Jam Master Jay A person is in custody after an alleged theft which left a person injured on the grounds of Palmerston North Hospital Police said officers were called to a Ruahine St carpark about 1.30pm on Tuesday Police said the alleged offender left the scene and was found a short time later "Police would like to thank the members of the public who witnessed the incident and intervened to assist the victim," a police spokesperson said That same night a staff member was knocked unconscious Staff have been calling for security improvements Health NZ MidCentral operations group director Sarah Fenwick previously told RNZ it was committed to making staff feel safer She said these included a security escort to vehicles increasing security services on hospital grounds and "opening up" access to the staff carpark for people working afternoon and night shifts "Lighting has been audited in all outside carparking areas to ensure it is well maintained," she said "Interim access to well-lit parking onsite with dedicated security for staff working afternoon and night shifts while a more permanent solution for out-of-hours carparking is developed." rnz.co.nz The Commerce Commission has filed criminal charges against Woolworths NZ for alleged inaccurate pricing and misleading specials that may have breached the Fair Trading Act The commission filed the charges against Woolworths in the Auckland District Court It indicated in December last year that it would be filing separate criminal charges against Woolworths and two Pak'nSave supermarkets the commission said there were ongoing issues with pricing in the supermarket sector and the operators may have breached the Fair Trading Act deputy chair Anne Callinan said operators should know what the expectations were "Supermarkets have long been on notice about the importance of accurate and clear pricing and specials and we're not satisfied with the continuing issues we're seeing across the industry "Pricing accuracy is a consumer right and an expectation of a competitive market well-resourced businesses that should invest the time and effort to get pricing and promotions right." She said the charges were filed to remind all supermarkets that they are expected to fix the pricing accuracy issues and implement better processes In a statement when the charges were announced Woolworths managing director Spencer Sonn said it was important customers could trust prices advertised at their supermarkets Woolworths said it has cooperated with the Commerce Commission's pricing investigation for some time rnz.co.nz Former prime minister Sir John Key says he remains optimistic about Donald Trump's domestic economic policy despite opposing the tariff strategy that has sent global markets into turmoil in recent months who served as prime minister for eight years was the keynote speaker at an Auckland business summit earlier today Sir John told 1News he believed Trump would ultimately take a more moderate approach to tariffs than initially proposed "I'm not a fan of tariff policies I don't think they really work," he said as I think the stock market is telling you at the moment that actually there will be a more sensible landing place for the tariffs that he's wanting to impose." Sir John said he "wasn't entirely surprised" at Trump's call to go ahead with the policy "They're just a negotiating point I think he simply put on widespread and high rates of tariffs on every country to give himself a leverage point and a negotiating point "What I think he actually grossly underestimated was the stock market reaction You can actually make the case that his own strategy hasn't worked The reason the markets have recovered is because he's taken those tariffs off the most part 'I'm going to negotiate case by case'." Sir John suggested Trump's economic policies could still generally be positive for the US but the tariffs could be trickier for the global economy Asked whether he stood by his October comments that Trump would be good for the economy he said: "Do I think he's going to reduce regulatory burden in the United States It depends on where things shake down in terms of tariffs." Sir John acknowledged that for certain industries Trump's policies could be "a really negative thing" particularly if the president's proposed 100% tariff on the film industry were to be implemented "I can't see how it would be cost-competitive to make a movie in New Zealand with a 100% tariff on it," he said noting that films such as The Hobbit would not have been made in New Zealand without government subsidies who now served as a director of US tech company Palo Alto Networks said he had "always been opposed" to Trump's tariff policies but believes they won't be the "dominant part of his economic solutions" "I don't think it's perfect from New Zealand's point of view but I don't think we should panic either and America will still be a very big market for us to sell things to," he said "There are growing markets around the world It's not a great thing from New Zealand's point of view We've got a very sound economy with lots of options in front of us." Sir John suggested a belief that the Republican Trump was was better "on balance" for the US economy than Democratic opponent Kamala Harris he expressed concerns about Trump's tariff approach: "China doesn't pay those tariffs middle-income consumers or consumers in America do because when a tariff goes on a good that you bring into a country He added: "I don't agree with the massive tariffs and I don't think you'll follow through with all of that and I certainly don't agree with this view on trade." Audrey Backeberg disappeared from a small city in south-central Wisconsin after reportedly hitchhiking with her family’s babysitter and catching a bus to Indianapolis Nobody ever knew where she went or what happened to her All that changed last week when she was found alive and safe in another state thanks to the fresh eyes from a deputy who took over the case in February Detective Isaac Hanson discovered an out-of-state arrest record that matched Backeberg which triggered a series of investigative moves that led to finding her alive and safe in another state Turns out Backeberg chose to leave the town of Reedsburg on her own accord – likely due to an abusive husband safe and secure; And just kind of lived under the radar for that long,” he said Hanson was assigned the case in late February and he and other officials met with Backeberg’s family to see if they had a connection with that region They also started digging through Backeberg's sister's Ancestry.com account obituaries and marriage licenses from that region they found an address where a woman was living that Hanson said shared a lot of similarities with Backeberg including date of birth and social security number Hanson was able to get a deputy from that jurisdiction to go to the address "I was expecting the deputy to call me back and say ‘Oh nobody answered the door.’ And I thought it was the deputy calling me I could sense that she obviously had her reasons for leaving.” Most of the information he learned during that call he declined to share saying that it was still important to Backeberg that she not be found “I think it overwhelmed her of course with the emotions that she had having a deputy show up at her house and then kind of call her out and talk with her about what happened and kind of relive 62 years in 45 minutes,” he said Hanson described discovering her safe after more than six decades practically unheard of And while he doesn't know what will happen next in terms of her family reconnecting he said he was happy that she can reach out if she wants to so she has my contact number if she ever wants to reach out or needs anything any phone numbers of family members back here," he said "Ultimately she kind of holds the cards for that.” The government is making it harder to make a claim for pay equity that will cut costs There have been massive pay equity claims in recent years for nurses and resthome workers Workplace Minister Brooke van Velden announced the moves to raise the threshold for proving work has been historically undervalued to support a claim on Tuesday saying changes back in 2020 had created problems "Claims have been able to progress without strong evidence of undervaluation and there have been very broad claims where it is difficult to tell whether differences in pay are due to sex-based discrimination or other factors." Claims were concentrated in the public sector with costs to the Crown of all settlements so far totalling $1.78 billion a year "The changes I am proposing will significantly reduce costs to the Crown," she said "The changes will discontinue current pay equity claims." Van Velden told Midday Report she believes in pay equity but the current thresholds were "a bit too loose" Asked how she ensure women were not hurt by this the minister said "I'm a woman and I support women who work" "I also support removing gender based discriminations from our workforces but what I don't support are muddied laws and unclear laws," she said "So these changes are better for all women who are working where we can genuinely say hand on heart that what they are finding with their claims is genuine gender based discrimination." Van Velden told reporters at Parliament any current claims would be stopped and need to restart under the new threshold to show "genuine" gender discrimination and make sure the comparators were right She gave a figure of 33 current claims that would be stopped as the legislation was put through under urgency "You have librarians who've been comparing themselves to transport engineers We have admin and clerical staff at Health New Zealand comparing themselves to mechanical engineers." Social workers had compared themselves to air traffic controllers "We don't believe we have that setting right." Any comparison would now be between female employees and male employees at the same employer "But you cannot go fishing for discrimination across the New Zealand workforce." All current settled claims would continue but the government was drawing "a line in the sand" "We're not stopping claims." The nurse's union has this year had at least 10 pay equity claims in play The PSA union has said pay equity claims and settlements had resulted in significant improvements in pay and working conditions for many workers The union said the changes would make it "impossible for people in female-dominated professions to be paid fairly" "Women across the country will pay the price for this," PSA national secretary Fleur Fitzsimons said "The government's changes today are a dark day for New Zealand women as the government says it will repeal the pay equity law and extinguish 33 existing claims in a constitutional overreach "The PSA is exploring all possible avenues to oppose these unconstitutional amendments and stop this attack on women We will not be deterred in our fight to achieve pay equity for all." "This is a blatant and shameful attack on women," New Zealand Nurses organisation chief executive Paul Goulter said "Women in workforces predominantly performed by female employees have been underpaid and undervalued for generations That is what pay equity claims seek to rectify," he said "This move by the government will widen the pay gap between men and women." The union had at least 10 pay current pay claims across Aged Care These cover many nurses and support workers The E tū union also called the changes an attack on women and a green light to pay them less for work of equal value The government was pulling the rug out from under a 13-year-long fight in aged care "These changes are not about evidence — they are about saving money by keeping women underpaid," national secretary Rachel Mackintosh said in a statement A number of unions have called a snap rally at Parliament at 1pm today in light of the announcement the Council of Trade Unions and representatives of other unions say they will be "protesting the government's attack on women and the destruction of progress on pay equity..." rnz.co.nz Shane William Pritchard has been charged with crimes he didn’t commit and chased for debts he doesn’t owe That’s because the Dunedin man is not the only Shane William Pritchard in town While the duo’s shared name and age has sometimes been a handy loophole for one Shane for the other it has caused problems for 36 years It’s been years of fearing every knock on the door Years of wondering if he’ll be hand-cuffed and taken to jail to be honest,” says Shane William Pritchard a scout and a member of the Air Training Corp remembers getting quite a shock when her friend called one evening She'd been acting as a referee for a gun licence for Shane whose friend informed her that the police had a long list of offences against Shane’s name Not long after that the police turned up to where Shane was working at the local tannery to arrest him “You're scrambling in your head to think of ways that you can prove it's not you.” Another Shane William Pritchard had been born in Otago They were separated by just two weeks and about 50 miles – one growing up in Mosgiel the other in Milton – but also by the lives they’d been leading To watch the full video story go to TVNZ+ Shane from Milton had huge problems focusing at school He was raised in foster care and then boys’ homes I just wanted to look cool and get in trouble,” he tells Fair Go Milton Shane was used to run-ins with police he got pulled over in his car and asked about his driving licence one’s got a licence and the other hasn’t.’ And I’m like ‘obviously it must be the one with a licence’.” he went to his bank to draw out an ACC payment and was asked which bank account was his He says that at that point he was trying to figure out what was going on “I thought it was just an error.” But he took advantage of the situation and withdrew a large sum of cash Mosgiel Shane became aware of the withdrawal when a scheduled car payment was declined and when Milton Shane turned up at the bank to withdraw more money Identity fraud was considered but Milton Shane was legitimately expecting an ACC payment so the withdrawal appeared to be a genuine mistake and the police couldn’t take any action 'Anything I could get away with Mosgiel Shane thought the bank incident would have alerted police to the problem But his nemesis had cottoned on to the advantages of having a second identity to use Milton Shane acquired a suite of furniture on hire-purchase Milton-Shane clocked up more driving offences Mosgiel Shane thought about changing his name but realised he’d have to provide his previous name in the process the courts and debt collectors such as Baycorp should be able to distinguish between himself and Milton Shane The police first addressed the issue in the 1990s after Mosgiel Shane went to the media He was given a letter to carry with him should he be apprehended He and his parents felt his situation wasn’t being taken seriously Mosgiel Shane went to the media a second time in the mid-2000s the police gave their word that a record in their system would stop the misidentification from happening again This does appear to have worked as far as police action goes But while Mosgiel Shane was given the same reassurance by the Ministry of Justice he continued to receive demands from the courts for unpaid fines He’d also get stopped and questioned whenever he left the country for work trips or holidays It took a huge toll on Mosgiel Shane’s mental health not realising the constant stress it placed on his life John Pritchard says that at times his son felt his life wasn’t worth living worrying about what he was going to do to himself and that really ate me up.” he and his son were in tears as Shane admitted he was at breaking point He described going for days at a time unable to eat or sleep wondering what might happen next "Am I going to be in a position where they've got me in handcuffs or I've got debt collectors coming to the door?" ...You're spiralling into this black hole." He started taking anti-anxiety medication which helped And events regarding Milton Shane seemed to settle Milton Shane was charged for fishing without a licence in Twizel and failing to comply with fisheries officers But a court registrar incorrectly entered the birth date of Mosgiel Shane in the system both Shanes were being chased to pay the $1530 fine It was Mosgiel Shane who spotted the error and rang the court He also sent a statement from his manager saying he’d not been fishing in Twizel that day The reply he got was to say he’d been given the wrong form and that they wouldn’t accept his proof They just wanted to know how I was going to pay the fine.” The first Milton Shane knew about this was when Fair Go told him Mosgiel Shane had been chased for the fine He was told to pay up or face the consequences feeling he shouldn’t have to pay good money to correct someone else’s mistake But it cost Mosgiel Shane over $5000 in legal fees and took months of back and forth between him “Why should anybody have to pay their own money to right somebody else's wrongs and prove who they are I’m sick and tired of proving who I am all the time.” He wanted the Ministry of Justice to take responsibility and reimburse him for his legal costs saying court staff such as the registrar in this case have immunity if they make mistakes such as the one made here and if I make a mistake and it's affecting my client that it's going to cost them money to rectify a mistake that I've made.” he deserves a million apologies from those guys,” she says Milton Shane told Fair Go he still gets in trouble but wants the other Shane to know he doesn’t use his birth date anymore And he had a message for him: “We’ve got to get it sorted for you so you can have a good life with you and your family because I’m trying to get my life together with my son and my grandson” He offers to meet to see if they can sort it out together but I’m not interested in meeting him,.” says Mosgiel Shane He says he doesn’t hold any grudges and accepts Milton Shane’s apology And he believes the only way for that to happen is for the courts and the Ministry of Justice to give him a guarantee that mix-ups won’t occur in the future Fair Go asked the Ministry of Justice to appear in person to apologise and provide reassurance to Shane of its plans to guard against these mistakes The Ministry declined our request to be on camera saying any comment on an individual case would compromise the independence of the courts as the Ministry operates separately But it did send a written apology directly to Mosgiel Shane It also admitted mistakes can occur in clerical records but said instructions were clear and the importance of getting things right had been emphasised to staff Mosgiel Shane isn’t totally convinced that’s the end of it “All I want is for the Ministry of Justice and the courts to do their job I'd like to live without this hanging over me all the time his criminal check has come back showing a clean slate Kiwi motorcyclist Shane Richardson is one of two riders who died in an 11-bike crash at a British Supersport Championship event was fatally injured alongside Englishman Owen Jenner on the first corner of the race at Oulton Park A statement from British Superbikes said the race was immediately stopped and trackside medical services deployed "Due to the extreme severity of the incident and ongoing medical intervention the remainder of the Bennetts British Superbike Championship event was cancelled," a spokesperson said "This catastrophic accident has tragically resulted in two riders being fatally injured and another sustaining significant injuries." Richardson was initially treated trackside and then taken to the circuit's medical centre before he was taken to Royal Stoke University Hospital with "severe chest injuries" Jenner was also initially treated trackside and then taken to the circuit medical centre where he died from a "catastrophic head injury" British rider Tom Tunstall suffered back and abdominal injuries and a further five riders including New Zealander Morgan McLaren-Wood were transferred to the circuit medical centre with minor injuries which did not require transfer to hospital Three more riders were also involved but were uninjured who was a previous New Zealand rider of the year Cemetery Circuit in Whanganui posted to its social media in tribute to Richardson a fantastic and talented racer and a genuine human" "Devastated to hear we have lost another of our racing family Our thoughts are with Hannah and the family along with our condolences to Owen’s family too." Richardson's sponsor Whites Powersports said the team was "extremely saddened" by the news of his death "Shane will be remembered by many as a great racer Our thoughts go out to Shane’s young family and friends during this tough time The New Zealand Superbike Championship said its "deepest sympathies" went out to Richardson's family and friends Lady Gaga gave a free concert Saturday night in front of 2 million fans who poured onto Copacabana Beach for the biggest show of her career (...) Thank you for making history with me,” Lady Gaga told a screaming crowd kicked off the show at around 22.10pm local time with her 2011 song Bloody Mary Cries of joy rose from the tightly-packed fans who sang and danced shoulder-to-shoulder on the vast stretch of sand Concert organisers said 2.1 million people attended the show switching between an array of dresses including one with the colours of the Brazilian flag Some fans – many of them young – arrived on the beach at the crack of dawn to secure a good spot “Today is the best day of my life,” said Manoela Dobes a 27-year-old designer who was wearing a dress plastered with a photograph from when she met Lady Gaga in the United States in 2019 Madonna also turned Copacabana Beach into a massive dance floor last year The large-scale performances are part of an effort led by City Hall to boost economic activity after Carnival and New Years’ Eve festivities and the upcoming month-long Saint John’s Day celebrations in June “It brings activity to the city during what was previously considered the low season – filling hotels and increasing spending in bars generating jobs and income for the population,” said Osmar Lima the city’s secretary of economic development in a statement released by Rio City Hall’s tourism department last month Rio’s City Hall said in a recent report that around 1.6 million people were expected to attend Lady Gaga's concert and that the show should inject at least 600 million reais (NZ$178.3 million) into Rio’s economy Similar concerts are scheduled to take place every year in May at least until 2028 Lady Gaga arrived in Rio in the early hours of Tuesday The city has been alive with Gaga-mania since as it geared up to welcome the pop star for her first show in the country since 2012 Rio’s metro employees danced to Lady Gaga’s 2008 hit song LoveGame and gave instructions for today in a video A free exhibition celebrating her career sold out While the vast majority of attendees were from Rio the event also attracted Brazilians from across the country and international visitors More than 500,000 tourists poured into the city in the days leading up to the show according to data from the local bus station and Tom Jobim airport Rio’s City Hall said in a statement yesterday made a cross-continent trip from Colombia to Brazil to attend the show “I’ve been a 100% fan of Lady Gaga my whole life,” said Serrano who was wearing a T-shirt featuring Lady Gaga’s outlandish costumes over the years the mega-star represents “total freedom of expression – being who one wants without shame” Rio officials have a history of organising huge concerts on Copacabana Beach Madonna’s show drew an estimated 1.6 million fans last year while 4 million people flooded onto the beach for a 1994 New Year’s Eve show by Rod Stewart in 1994 that was the biggest free rock concert in history sixteen sound towers were spread along the beach Rio state’s security plan included the presence of 3300 military and 1500 police officers Among those present were Lady Gaga admirers who remember their disappointment in 2017 when the artist cancelled a performance scheduled in Rio at the last minute due to health issues “She's the best artist in the world,” the 25-year-old said I love you” in Portuguese rose from the crowd behind him whose real name is Ella Yelich O'Connor which also displayed what appears to be the album cover art — an X-ray of a pelvis "100% written in blood," the website read The new album's announcement came a week after she released her latest single What Was That The song's music video was filmed at a mysterious pop-up event in New York City's Washington Square Park that was initially shut down by police. The event ended up going ahead after all, and fans who stayed got to hear the new song for the first time. View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lorde (@lorde) It was the first sign of a follow-up to Lorde's previous album Her other albums were 2013's Pure Heroine and 2017's Melodrama she collaborated with British singer Charli XCX on a remix of Girl so confusing — on a re-release of the Grammy award-winning Brat Kim Kardashian thought she was going to be raped and killed when criminals broke into her bedroom in central Paris tied her up and stole more than US$6 million in jewellery 10 people will go on trial in Paris over the robbery abduction and kidnapping of the media personality and the concierge of the residence where she was staying during Paris Fashion Week the night of October 2 Kardashian’s lawyers said she will testify in person at the trial starting Monday and scheduled to run through May 23 "Ms Kardashian is reserving her testimony for the court and jury and does not wish to elaborate further at this time," they said "She has great respect and admiration for the French justice system and has been treated with great respect by the French authorities "She wishes the trial to proceed in an orderly fashion in accordance with French law and with respect for all parties to the case." In interviews and on her family’s reality TV show Kardashian has described being terrified as robbers pointed a gun at her In a 2020 appearance on David Letterman’s Netflix show she tearfully recalled thinking: "This is the time I’m going to get raped Twelve people were originally expected in the defendants’ box and another is seriously ill and can't be tried five of the 10 defendants were present at the scene of the robbery The French press has dubbed them The Granddad Robbers because the main defendants are elderly and have careers as bank robbers with long criminal records Kardashian told investigators she was taken to a bathroom next to her bedroom and placed in the bathtub Her attackers fled on bicycles or on foot and she managed to free herself by removing the tape from her hands and mouth She had also removed the tape from her feet and rushed to her stylist’s room She called her sister Kourtney to tell her about the theft Kardashian told investigators that she had not been injured adding that she wanted to leave France as soon as possible to be reunited with her children According to her testimony and that of the concierge at least one of the suspects had a handgun The gangsters stole many pieces of jewellery estimated to be worth more than US$6 million (NZ$10 million) Only one piece of jewellery — a diamond cross on platinum that was lost during the suspects' escape — has been recovered Two of the accused have partially confessed to the crime is one of two suspected robbers who allegedly entered the apartment his genetic profile was found on the tape used to gag Kardashian who was waiting for him in a parked car at a nearby train station The second robber said he tied up the concierge with cables but did not go up to Kardashian’s apartment said he acted as a lookout in the ground-floor reception area He said he was unarmed and did not personally threaten Kardashian but admitted he shared responsibility for the crime Abbas was arrested in January 2017 and spent 21 months in prison before being released under judicial supervision he co-authored a French-language book titled I Sequestered Kim Kardashian is the second alleged robber suspected of entering the flat although he was filmed by CCTV cameras and numerous telephone contacts with the other co-defendants show his involvement The other defendants are suspected of providing information about Kardashian’s presence in the apartment Others are accused of playing a role in the resale of the jewellery in Antwerp Joe Cocker and Bad Company will be inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame — in a class that also includes pop star Cyndi Lauper the rock duo the White Stripes and grunge masters Soundgarden the first female rap act to achieve gold and platinum status and the late singer-songwriter Warren Zevon will get the Musical Influence Award pianist Nicky Hopkins and bassist Carol Kaye will each get the Musical Excellence Award who sang at Woodstock and was best known for his cover of The Beatles’ With a Little Help From My Friends a member of Elvis Costello & The Attractions who argued that Cocker is "about as rock and roll as it gets" Soundgarden — with the late Chris Cornell as singer — get into the Hall on their third nomination They follow two other grunge acts in the Hall — Nirvana and Pearl Jam Bad Company get in having become radio fixtures with such arena-rock staples as Feel Like Makin’ Love Can’t Get Enough and Rock ‘n’ Roll Fantasy The Ahmet Ertegun Award — given to nonperforming industry professionals who had a major influence on music — will go to Lenny Waronker Some nominees that didn't get in this year included Mariah Carey and subsequent Let’s Twist Again are considered among the most popular songs in the history of rock 'n' roll The 83-year-old has expressed frustration that he hadn't been granted entry before including telling the AP in 2014: "I don’t want to get in there when I’m 85 years old so you better do it quick while I’m still smiling." Lauper rose to fame in the 1980s with hits such as Time After Time and Girls Just Want To Have Fun and went on to win a Tony Award for Kinky Boots have six Grammys and a reputation for pushing the boundaries of hip-hop The White Stripes — made up of Jack White and Meg White — were indie darlings in the early 2000s with such songs as Seven Nation Army Artists must have released their first commercial recording at least 25 years before they’re eligible for induction The induction ceremony will take place in Los Angeles this fall Nominees were voted on by more than 1200 artists historians and music industry professionals The selection criteria include "an artist’s impact on other musicians the scope and longevity of their career and body of work as well as their innovation and excellence in style and technique" Dave Matthews Band and singer-guitarist Peter Frampton were inducted Hamish Macaulay with some of his work at the Eames Fine Art Gallery in southeast London A Waikanae artist has returned to Kāpiti from a sellout show in London Hamish Macaulay showcased his exhibition Changing Light at the Eames Fine Art Gallery coloured pencil and chine collé (a printmaking technique) reflecting “the breathtaking landscapes of New Zealand” Macaulay and his partner Jen Wiggle took 73 of his works to England in their luggage to ensure they got there safely Wiggle said packing everything was quite difficult but they wanted to hand-deliver the works to the team at the gallery The opportunity to present in the gallery came about quickly and it was challenging to create enough works to fill the exhibition in such a short time “I had been developing a new process working with mixed media and wanted to integrate it into this body of work It involved testing and trying out the new approaches but thankfully it all came together in the end.” He said the opening function was a huge success and he sold some of his works before the show officially opened Everything had sold by the end of the first weekend Wiggle said: “The gallery team were adding further work to the exhibition from their archive of Hamish’s art – which also included four new works he had created whilst in London.” a sellout show is a dream come true – it was more successful than I could have possibly imagined.” He hoped viewers would see scenes in his work that resonated with them “I love it when someone tells me a work reminds them of a place they have visited – quite often it is somewhere I have never been I love that people are able to connect with my work and tell their own story.” there was a New Zealand wine evening for the gallery’s top collectors where London-based Theatre of Wines paired four New Zealand wines with Macaulay’s paintings and presented information and tasting notes Macaulay was able to present an artist’s talk and a Q&A session in conversation with the gallery’s co-director Macaulay’s next endeavour will be with Art in the Park which runs from September 19 to 22 at Eden Park in Auckland He will also be participating in the Kāpiti Coast Art Trail in November “I’m looking forward to welcoming new and old collectors into my studio to see a selection of my new work.” Some of the Cundy family members who were in the film: Greg (left) When the Cundy family went on holiday to Rarotonga five years ago they had no idea they would end up featuring in a film tracked him and the rest of the film crew down and became a clapper — the person yelling “cut” and “action” Noah spent time hanging around the film crew offered the family up as extras if they were needed They would quickly find out they were needed because the crew didn’t have many other extras for the movie and the resort wasn’t busy so they asked the family if they were keen to get involved Kevin starred as a security man in the film and the rest of the family were background extras although they all agreed Noah’s grandmother and Mum had more time on the camera than me,” said Kevin Kevin said it was a great opportunity to teach his children there was no limit to their potential — and the message got through Noah has since been an extra in another film and has been involved in other projects too “We can all be actors if we want to,” said Kevin starring in the film was only a bit of fun “It was just a bit of a laugh really,” said Ginny King whose last name was spelt Kina in the film’s credits much to the delight of the rest of the family When Stranded Pearl was released the family booked out Shoreline Cinema in Waikanae to stage their own premiere so they could all watch it for the first time Though they were all quite pleased with the results Sue had only one thing she wished they could have changed “We were disappointed there was no flyer.” Firearms seized at a Waikanae Beach address. (Source: NZ Police) A "significant amount" of cannabis plant and resin, two firearms, one of them a prohibited military-style semi automatic rifle, and ammunition were among items seized by police during the search of a Kapiti Coast property last week. Police said they went to the address of a Mongrel Mob prospect in Waikanae Beach on November 15 to assist with an unrelated matter. Constable Sam Lewis of the Wellington Gang Disruption Unit said police located cannabis at the address which led to a subsequent execution of a search warrant and the discovery of a "significant amount" of cannabis plant and resin. "While inside the address, police also located and seized a military style semi-automatic (MSSR) .22 rifle which is a prohibited firearm and a 12-gauge pump-action shotgun." Two prohibited .22 magazines with a 16-round capacity were found, alongside more than 400 rounds of .22 ammunition, 25 rounds of slug and buckshot shotgun ammunition, and two rifle silencers. Ammunition seized at a Waikanae Beach address. (Source: NZ Police) Lewis said police worked hard to hold offenders to account, "especially those with the potential to cause serious harm in our communities, such as people unlawfully in the possession of firearms". "We will continue to keep the pressure on gang members, associates, and those attempting to evade the justice system." A 35-year-old man, who did not hold a current firearms licence, was arrested at the scene. He was charged with multiple offences and held in custody, and was next due to appear in court on November 20. 38 mins ago 6:45pm 18 mins ago and Nathania Ellis both received life membership of the Waikanae Gymnastic Club The Waikanae Gymnastic Club has celebrated its birthday by naming two new life members committee members and life members present who is a graduate of the Ollerup International Academy in Denmark are ex-club gymnasts who have held committee roles and coached voluntarily at the club for 10 years and club member Kay Brown said very quickly the roll built up to more than 100 children Waikanae School helped to get the club started by lending its gymnastic equipment the Athletic Club lent its large crash mat to use until its season began and generous financial donations were given by the Rotary committees and supporters as a part of its journey and it remains one of the few clubs in New Zealand where all the coaches are still volunteers The current senior coaching team of six has collectively given almost 100 years of voluntary coaching to the club The club started as a competitive artistic club but then focused more on the European sport of team gymnastics This has led to several members attending World Gymnastradas one of the biggest sport leisure events in the world and a strong connection being made with Ollerup Physical Education School in Denmark The Waikanae Gymnastics Club has hosted six Ollerup graduates with two more to join the club next month Three of the club’s young coaches have received scholarships to attend Ollerup leaving to take up her scholarship this week In the 1990s the club established a Gymnastics in Schools Programme At the time this was one of the biggest and most successful school programmes offered in the country as well as classes in Waikanae Hall and various Kāpiti gymnasiums “The programme still flourishes albeit a little less ambitious with them now only providing programmes in the Memorial Hall for all the primary aged children of Waikanae.” About 30 years ago the club was on the ground floor in becoming involved with the innovative two-year National Youth Gymnastic Coach Training Programme targeted specifically at college students The club had 14 teenagers in the first regional programme and still continues to support it today The programme provides a great incentive for teenagers to stay in sports when so many are dropping out A 31-year-old has been charged with murder after a man died in an "altercation" at Waikanae Beach The man will appear in the Porirua District Court on Wednesday on a charge of murder Police said they were called to Napier Grove about 4:20pm on Tuesday where they found a seriously hurt man after a fight "Despite receiving urgent medical attention he died at the scene a short time later," police said A post-mortem exam on the man is set to be carried out on Thursday said she and her neighbours were worried after seeing and hearing all the lights and sirens - and she was shocked to learn someone had died "People were coming out on the street to have a look and people were really concerned as to what was going on "With all that attention by the different services it would seem that something very serious had taken place." genuine feeling of concern about what had gone on." No one seemed to have seen or heard anything and the house where she believed the person was killed was tucked down a long driveway that could not be seen from the street The community was home to a variety of people "I like the area because it's what I call a mixed area but it doesn't matter because we all say hello to each other." Police had been guarding the address overnight and a scene examination would take place in the coming days Another man who was known to the victim is helping police with their investigation Some of Gisborne's beaches are covered in slash The Wairoa District had a heavy rain warning that was in place lifted today The rain caused slips and some surface flooding It has also caused beaches and waterways in the region to be covered in slash Slash has been a major problem in the region with a 12-year-old boy dying in January 2024 after being injured at a beach that was covered in slash In October 2023, the government brought in regulations where slash longer than two metres, and with a large-end diameter of more than 10 centimeters, must be removed after harvesting from erosion-prone land unless it is unsafe to do so Gisborne District Council chief scientist Murry Cave said it was disappointing the waterways have been clogged again "We've had further woody debris come down the Waimata River onto the city beaches and it's a wee bit disappointing because we've managed to get a big clean up done just before Christmas and now it does look rather messy again so we're trying to work out how we can get rid of some of that bigger material as soon as possible." Cave said there was a bridge that is potentially damaged as a result near Bruce Road He said assessments will get underway on Saturday beaches and the beaches from Whangara through to Tolaga Bay will be the worst affected "We haven't had a chance to assess those beaches yet The city's beaches have been closed due to slash and emergency sewer valve releases "We already have signs up on the city beaches and on the beaches up at Wanui Beach warning of the danger "For Waikanae Beach at the moment where we probably have about 10 to 15 big logs that could roll around and be a threat to life we're really looking about how we can move those as fast as possible "It may not be possible to get the contractors on but we are looking at whether or not we can actually drag those logs up beyond the high tide mark so that the beach is safe." Cave said that should be done in the next few days SafeSwim have issued a warning not to swim at Waikanae Beach Tolaga Bay and Ocean Beach due to dangerous conditions A similar warning has been issued for Ohope Beach due to sharks It comes right before the three-day Rhythm and Vines music festival begins on Sunday, with up to 30,000 people expected to attend Surf Live Saving said the Gisborne District Council has strongly advised people to stay out of the water to avoid the risk of illness but is monitoring the situation and will provide updates as conditions change "If you're heading to Rhythm and Vines or considering a swim at the beach in Gisborne; then please note that there is a current water quality notice in place for Gisborne beaches due to the recent storm." showers are expected to persist until early Sunday morning An interisland ferry passenger has been injured and cars have been damaged during a rough Cook Strait crossing this morning Much of the country can look forward to brighter skies this weekend with temperatures into the 30s expected for Central Otago for Saturday A band of low pressure is bringing stormy weather to the motu and Interislander ferry passengers are being warned to expect delays A man accused of a fatal stabbing in Waikanae Beach has appeared in court this morning The man attended court in a dark blue boiler suit where his lawyer asked for a remand without plea until a date in early July following an incident on Napier Grove in Waikanae The man’s lawyer asked for interim name suppression for the 31-year-old and also asked for the reasons for name suppression to be suppressed Judge Andrew Nicholls granted the application Detective Senior Sergeant Pete Middlemiss yesterday said police responded to reports of a man having suffered serious injuries following an altercation about 4.20pm “The man received medical attention at the scene is speaking with police and assisting with inquiries “Police do not believe there is any ongoing risk to the public Inquiries into the circumstances of what occurred are ongoing.” Middlemiss said a scene examination will be conducted at the Napier Grove address over the coming days A post-mortem is expected to be carried out tomorrow Police officers could be seen stationed outside the house on Wednesday morning Local Ōtaki MP Tim Costley took to his social media last night to speak of the death “Really sad to hear of the tragic loss of life at Waikanae Beach and all those who serve our community and were involved this afternoon in trying to save him,” Costley wrote The incident occurred at Napier Grove in Waikanae Police have launched a homicide investigation following a man’s death this afternoon on the Kāpiti Coast The suspected stabbing occurred at Napier Grove in Waikanae Beach Detective Senior Sergeant Pete Middlemiss said police responded to reports of a man having suffered serious injuries following an altercation about 4.20pm “Cordons have been put in place and a scene examination will be conducted over the following days Stuff is reporting that Napier Grove was cordoned off with at least 10 police cars and an ambulance responding Beach FM posted on social media that the incident was unfolding at Napier Grove “Several emergency services have been sent to the scene and the Westpac Rescue Helicopter is involved “The road has been closed by Police at Queens Rd and Hicks Cres.” Westpac Rescue Helicopter said they were called out at 4.30pm to an incident at Waikanae Beach but were stood down before arrival Wellington Free Ambulance said: “This is an active scene at the moment and we recommend reaching out to police who are the lead agency and all queries should be directed through them.” Local Ōtaki MP Tim Costley took to his social media tonight to speak of the death “Really sad to hear of the tragic loss of life at Waikanae Beach this afternoon The Waikanae Surf Life Saving Club open team took out the bronze medal in the mixed team final at the New Zealand IRB championships at Waipu Cove Waikanae crews came home with two gold and five bronze medals from the BP New Zealand IRB (inflatable rescue boat) Championships held at Waipu Cove in Northland at the weekend The carnival drew 123 crews from 30 clubs across the country Kaiaponi Farms Waikanae’s three crews finished seventh on the overall points table - a performance coach and crew member Connor Mitchell described as “pretty phenomenal” Waikanae’s Under-19 team of driver Hamish Swann crewman Taran Wilson and patient Michaela Clearwater won the two gold medals and finished second overall in their age group of of 23 crews The open men’s crew of Mitchell (driver) and Oliver Shivnan (crewman) finished second on overall points out of 18 open men’s teams Eric Clearwater and Michelle ‘Mitch’ Mitchell also added points to the club’s tally “The teams had a cracking weekend,” club manager Clara Wilson said The U19 team won the assembly race and prestigious single rescue event Shivnan and Ana Naden earned bronze in the tube rescue bronze in the assembly (with Clearwater as patient) and bronze in the mass rescue (Clearwater and Harry Allan as patients) The masters crew got bronze in the masters assembly Taran and Michaela won the bronze,” Wilson said “They produced an awesome race in that final in what was a super-fast group “It was a really impressive result considering half the team were in the U19 division.” Connor Mitchell said it was a “pretty phenomenal” performance from all three of the club’s combinations A couple of little mistakes and a couple of waves cost us further medals “The Under-19s were excellent and finished only one point shy of first place in their age division.” Mitchell and Shivnan were a point away from top crew in the open men’s division The overall top club was Sunset Beach from Port Waikato with St Kilda from Dunedin runners-up The start of Anja Wilhelmer's mural in a Mahara Place alleyway An Austrian-born artist is creating a thought-provoking mural Anja Wilhelmer is transforming a white brick wall in Waikanae’s Mahara Place shopping precinct into a mural that seeks to raise awareness about improving water quality Wilhelmer had been doing some flower artwork for the nearby Jenoa clothing shop when the owner told her the alleyway was getting a lot of graffiti “The wall in the alleyway had to be painted over several times because of the graffiti “It wasn’t a nice space to walk through either with people trying to get through as fast as possible “I discussed with the shopkeepers including the owner of the hairdressing shop about brightening up the space and getting rid of the graffiti “The hairdressing shop owner is English and really into street artist Banksy which gave me some ideas about involving the wall what surprised me was the drinking water didn’t taste good She has received funding from the Kāpiti Coast District Council for the acrylic-coated murals “I’ve had quite a few people stop and watch Before I started I got in touch with some local people who gave me paint Wilhelmer has been passionate about art from an early age “When you’re about 10 [in Austria] you can choose to go to a school that focuses on something “I always went to art classes so I went to a school where a lot of the time was devoted to art and in the end got a diploma.” Her interest in murals was encouraged by learning from a street artist in San Francisco Wilhelmer is a yoga teacher at Waikanae Yoga Wellbeing Wilhelmer also does art workshops called Breathe and Draw as well as some children’s art classes family and fellow firefighters have celebrated Waikanae Volunteer Fire Brigade station officer John Mills’ 25 years of service At a special event at the station on Saturday Mills was awarded the United Fire Brigades’ Association Gold Star for 25 years of service by past president David Ackroyd Ackroyd told the crowd of 70 who had gathered that only 8000 firefighters had earned this medal in the last 150 years and less than 1% of those came from Waikanae Speaking on behalf of Fire and Emergency New Zealand group manager Steve Hudson spoke of the character and qualities Mills had displayed over 25 years of service to earn this medal The eight points of the gold star speak of qualities like courage Ōtaki MP Tim Costley spoke of the value of service “We need to recognise and value service more in this country Our nation’s success relies on people who value service and are willing to give of themselves to their community There is no finer example than station officer John Mills “It can be easy to undervalue how significant tonight is in a station like this filled with people who serve their community daily but it is a rare thing and a thing worth celebrating Porirua firefighter John Rowe travelled north especially for the evening to welcome Mills Rowe spoke of the sacrifices that the families of volunteer firefighters make: “Leaving partners at home with the kids The evening finished with friends and family from the station joking of John’s love for “all the latest gadgets” and his passion for biking and photography But the biggest theme was the significant contribution Mills had made to training new volunteers firefighters paid tribute to Mills’ training and giving up weeknights and weekends to provide extra training especially the Sunday afternoon drives in the fire truck where they also helped our community at various stops Mills joins chief fire officer Sarah Sundgren and senior firefighter John Backler as Waikanae firefighters with a Gold Star deputy chief fire officer Alan Tinney and senior firefighter Eric Robinson Gisborne Holdings Ltd chief executive Richard Searle says Gisborne's Waikanae Beach Top 10 Holiday Park had a good start this summer but a shift in weather after Christmas resulted in a slower booking rate The unseasonal weather Tairāwhiti has experienced since New Year has impacted visitor numbers at the region’s campgrounds It has been 4.7C colder on average in Gisborne than the same time last year Gisborne i-SITE staff report there were still quite a few people coming through - overseas visitors and New Zealanders alike “But it has been a bit quieter than normal and we put that down to the weather.” Patronage at the Waikanae Beach Top 10 Holiday Park has traditionally been a yardstick by which the summer season can be judged Gisborne Holdings Ltd chief executive Richard Searle said the holiday park had a good start to December because of the warm weather but a shift in weather after Christmas had meant a slower camper booking rate “We’ve had some cancellations and delays to travel plans “We were down around 15% in camper patronage over peak season.” Moteliers the Gisborne Herald spoke to said it had been quiet since New Year the quietest I’ve known in three years,” said one motel manager Another motel manager described the season as “patchy” “We’ve had a lot of cancellations due to the weather,” she said “People get nervous about coming to Gisborne A third manager said they were fine over Christmas and around New Year due to the Rhythm and Vines music festival and thousands of young people it brought to the district “But it’s certainly died off over the past two weeks because of the weather.” The council has handled fewer permits for summer camping than in the past four years So far this summer the number stands at 1039 permits received by January 14 Last year’s permit number to the same date was 1299 Paid surf lifeguard supervisor Tyler Ranger said beach numbers had definitely been down on what they were expecting “The weather has been a bit cooler than expected you’ve had water quality issues at the city beaches and the storms have brought some big surf on occasions - notably in the past week with three metre-sized surf at Wainui and about the same in town,” Ranger said The swell on the beaches had since dropped off people who have to come to the beach have really known their limits and listened to lifeguards’ advice.” While it has been notably cooler than usual here, the NZ Herald reported that warm temperatures were on the way for the latter half of January with subtropical air and rain expected to descend over New Zealand through to March The National Institute of Water and Atmospheric Research (Niwa) said a low-pressure system over the Tasman Sea would “act like a gear to bring warm temperatures down from the tropics” late in the month Kelsey Teneti helped the Black Ferns 7s win the world title in Los Angeles.