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Northland's fast-track approvals show heavy focus on infrastructure
Northland's fast-track approvals show heavy focus on infrastructure

08 October 2024, 6:25 PM

Peter de GraafA Northland business group is welcoming the heavy focus on infrastructure in the government's list of local projects singled out for fast-tracked consenting.The 11 projects on Northland's list are mostly essential infrastructure such as roads, rail and housing with broad community support - but they also include a contentious sand mining proposal and a port expansion which was refused consent earlier this year.Few Northlanders will argue with the plan to build an alternative route to the notoriously slip-prone State Highway 1 over the Brynderwyn Hills, or with a Māori health provider's plan to build up to 100 affordable homes for the "working poor" in Kaikohe.Crucial but unglamorous projects such as upgrading Kaikohe's ageing sewage treatment plant are also on the list, as is a long-delayed proposal for a railway link to Northport - one of only a few ports in New Zealand not connected to the national rail network.NorthChamber chief executive Leah McKerrow said the list was good news for Northland."We are very pleased, particularly with the heavy focus on infrastructure because, obviously, accessibility for Northland businesses is critical. The key for us is that that they are able to be moved along as quickly as possible."McKerrow said some projects, such as the wastewater upgrade, were "absolutely critical"."But anything that's actually helping our roading and our rail link is going to be advantageous to a much greater number of businesses in Northland. So those are the ones that we really feel are quite urgent to progress," she said.A plan to expand Northport, rejected by independent commissioners earlier this year, is on the list of Northland projects eligible for fast-tracked consenting. Photo: SuppliedConsent for a major expansion of Northport, at Marsden Point, was refused by independent commissioners in July this year.The main reason was the loss of recreational and cultural values arising from the reclamation of a popular beach to make way for a container terminal.Northport is already appealing that decision, but chief executive Jon Moore said the project's inclusion on the fast-track list added an extra consenting pathway for the board to consider.Whether it was a viable option would depend on the final wording and provisions of the fast-track consenting bill.Moore said Northport firmly believed the project had the potential to stimulate economic development in Northland and strengthen the resilience of the national supply chain network.Opposition to the port expansion was led by the Patuharakeke Te Iwi Trust Board.At the time, spokesperson Juliane Chetham hailed the commissioners' decision at the time as "clear and correct".Patuharakeke has been contacted for comment.Perhaps the most controversial project on the list - given opposition to similar operations further down the coast - is a proposal to mine sand off Waipū Cove in Bream Bay.Natalie Jessup, general manager of Tāngaro Tuia te Ora-Endangered Species Foundation, said the potential fast-tracking of sand mining was deeply disappointing."This is a heart-breaking blow for Aotearoa's coastline. Bream Bay, like Mangawhai and Pākiri, is home to some of our most vulnerable species, including the critically endangered tara iti [New Zealand fairy tern]. Approving sand mining here is not only environmentally destructive but a betrayal of the communities who have fought to protect these areas for decades."Jessup said sand was not a critical mineral, because it was neither rare nor facing supply shortages, so should not be included in the fast-track list.Some projects are notable for their omission from the list.There had been speculation a $14 million project originally funded by the Provincial Growth Fund to build breakwaters around Paihia, protecting the town from easterly storms, might be included.That project, however, was abandoned in 2022 not due to consenting difficulties but due to soaring costs. It had also divided the Paihia community.Another contentious project not on the list is a stalled, PGF-funded boat ramp and reclamation at Rangitane in Kerikeri Inlet.The Northland listFar North housing (applicant: Te Rūnanga o Ngāi Takoto): Development of 140 house sites, water storage and campsite redevelopment.Kaikohe housing (Te Hau Ora O Ngāpuhi): 100-unit affordable housing development on Bisset Rd.Northport expansion (Northport): New container terminal and wharf extension.SH1 Whangārei to Port Marsden Highway (NZTA Waka Kotahi): Four-laning of 22km of SH1 south of Whangārei, including upgrade of the SH1/SH15 intersection.SH1 Brynderwyn Hills alternative (NZTA Waka Kotahi): Plan, design and deliver an alternative to the current SH1 over the Brynderwyns.Shipyard and drydock (MBIE): Build and operate a marine maintenance facility at Northport capable of servicing Navy ships and New Zealand's biggest vessels.Kaikohe wastewater treatment plant upgrade (Far North District Council): Resolve noncompliance and improve the treatment process, and create capacity for planned affordable housing developments.Marsden Point rail link (KiwiRail): Build a 19km rail link from Oakleigh, south of Whangārei, to Northport.Lake Ōmāpere restoration (Lake Ōmāpere Trust): Restore the mauri [life force] and water quality of Lake Ōmāpere through dredging, wetland construction and water level management.Bream Bay sand extraction (McCallum Brothers): Sand mining over a proposed 35-year consent period.Muriwhenua aquaculture (Te Aupōuri Fisheries Management): Develop nine marine farms around the top of the Far North.To see the full list click here.This story was originally published by RNZ

NEW TO THE APP - Attractions & Schools / Tutoring
NEW TO THE APP - Attractions & Schools / Tutoring

07 October 2024, 9:05 PM

We have some new business listings for you to check out. Remember to SUPPORT LOCAL!!AttractionsThe Range Warkworth has the perfect range of sport activities for the whole family. Featuring golf driving range, mini golf, air rifle range, baseball/softball batting cages. Best of all they are open 7 days! Try it out these school holidays!NZ Oyster Farm Tours is a good time! You get to explore the harbour on a cute boat called Shuckleberry; sip some beverages; eat as many oysters as you can, while soaking up the good vibes and learning about oysters from the friendly guides.Aotearoa Surf School at Mangawhai / Te Arai operates at some of the most stunning beaches, including Te Arai, Mangawhai, Pakiri and Orewa. They offer surfing lessons for all ages and experiences both group and private; summer camps for kids and modern eco-accommodation in Te Arai.Skywork Helicopters - Established in 1997, Skywork Helicopters is a premier provider of helicopter charter and scenic flight services in New Zealand. With a commitment to delivering unforgettable experiences, they specialise in showcasing the breathtaking landscapes of our country from above, ensuring each passenger is treated like a VIP. Their experienced team prioritises safety and efficiency, making every flight a seamless and memorable adventure. Operating from strategic locations in Matakana, Warkworth, and Whangarei. Schools & TutoringMatakids Club has a new owner - Lucie Anderlova! MataKids offers before and after school care based in Matakana School. You’ll find them at school in the arts hub from 7am every morning and again afterschool until 6pm. Matakids provides a safe, nurturing and relaxed environment for all who attend.📱 If you want your business to be on the App get in contact [email protected] or Contact

Transpower eyes 'investment', not compensation, after Northland blackout
Transpower eyes 'investment', not compensation, after Northland blackout

07 October 2024, 6:56 PM

Peter de GraafNational grid operator Transpower says it is exploring options for investing in the region following the collapse of a power pylon that led to a large-scale blackout.Northland's Chamber of Commerce has called for compensation for businesses ever since the 20 June debacle, while Northland MP Grant McCallum said Transpower should pay out a "seven-figure sum" to benefit the region.Yesterday's report by the Electricity Authority, highlighting failings at both Transpower and its contractor Omexom, has further fuelled calls for compensation.Transpower's executive general manager for customer and external affairs, Raewyn Moss, told RNZ the company had held a number of meetings with mayors and business leaders to examine options for investing money for the benefit of Northland.It would not be compensation but an investment, similar to what Transpower did in Hawke's Bay in the wake of Cyclone Gabrielle.Transpower was holding another meeting today with Northland groups as it worked on the final shape of that investment, Moss said.An announcement would be made once the details were finalised.Estimates of the cost to Northland of the power outage range from $37.5m up to $80m.McCallum originally suggested a year-long discount to all Northland power users, but he was advised that was too difficult to implement.His latest suggestion was for a one-off payment to be distributed by a group such as Northland Inc.Transpower has previously said it does not guarantee uninterrupted power, and is not legally obliged to offer compensation.Domestic users can seek compensation via their power retailers but they have to be able to prove a financial loss, for example due to spoiled food.Following the outage, which saw big industrial users shut down for up to four days, businesses were advised to contact their insurers for financial recompense.This story was originally published by RNZ

NZ Navy ship runs aground off Samoa, catches fire and sinks
NZ Navy ship runs aground off Samoa, catches fire and sinks

05 October 2024, 11:59 PM

Government and environmental agencies in Samoa are on alert after a New Zealand Navy ship caught fire and sank off the south coast of Upolu.The HMNZS Manawanui - a specialist dive and hydrographic vessel - was conducting a reef survey when it hit the reef on Saturday night.Seventy-five crew and passengers were taken off the vessel by liferafts and other boats which came to the rescue.Samoa fire commissioner Tanuvasa Petone said the ship caught fire and sank on Sunday morning after a successful rescue. Three on board needed hospital treatment, he said."They're all on land. They are safe and sound apart from just a few individuals that… have some minor injuries, and so we treated them at the site and transferred to them to the hospital."Petone said the conditions were "quite rough and windy".The Defence Force will reveal more information on Sunday afternoon.Research vessel HMNZS Manawanui, the navy's specialist dive and hydrographic vessel, regularly conducts tasks across the Pacific.In 2018, the government said the ship would cost $103 million to buy and convert. It was completed in 2019.Marinetraffic.com's ship tracker earlier showed the vessel was 'aground' near the village of Siumu, on the southern side of Upolu, at 10.45pm Saturday.Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority staff rescue crew of the HMNZS Manawanui after it ran aground in Samoa. Photo: Samoa Fire and Emergency Services AuthorityMaritime component commander Commodore Shane Arndell said the grounding occurred while conducting a reef survey.The 75 crew and passengers were at first evacuated onto life rafts, before being taken ashore by rescuers."They are being supported in Samoa or on supporting vessels," Arndell said."The New Zealand Defence Force worked closely with Maritime New Zealand's Rescue Coordination Centre (RCCNZ) which coordinated rescue efforts. Several vessels responded and assisted in rescuing crew and passengers. A Royal New Zealand Air Force P-8A Poseidon was also deployed."The HMNZS Manawanui, aground in Samoa. Photo: Profile Boats / suppliedPhotographs uploaded by the Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority showed crew being carried into ambulances and life rafts being hauled ashore. People appeared generally to be in good spirits.Samoa Fire and Emergency Services Authority staff rescue crew of the HMNZS Manawanui after it ran aground in Samoa. Photo: Samoa Fire and Emergency Services AuthorityHMNZS Manawanui departed Auckland's Devonport naval base for the Pacific on 29 September.According to the Defence Force website, the ship has a core crew of 39. It has been in service since November 2019 and has a top speed of 14 knots (26km/h).In November 2023, it was used in a seven-week operation to conduct underwater surveys and help to dispose of submerged World War II bombs in Niue, Fiji and Vanuatu."Some of our crew hail from Pacific nations and so for them our deployments to the Pacific are a way for them to give something back to their communities," Commanding Officer Yvonne Gray said at the time.This story was originally posted by RNZ News

Magnitude 5.7 quake shakes central NZ
Magnitude 5.7 quake shakes central NZ

05 October 2024, 6:24 PM

A strong 5.7 quake has jolted the lower North Island and top of the South Island.The quake happened at 5.08am, centred 25 kilometres west of Wellington at a depth of 31km.Wellington Region Emergency Management said on its Facebook page there was no tsunami warning.Wellington transport operator Metlink said it was replacing trains with buses until further notice.The National Emergency Management Agency told RNZ it had no reports of damage yet, and was not yet considering activating a response.A person in the suburb of Johnsonville told RNZ items fell off their shelves, while a Whanganui resident said it was felt quite strongly there.So far more than 37,000 people have reported feeling it to the Geonet website, from as far north as Auckland's North Shore down to Invercargill in the south.A listener in the Wellington suburb of Ōwhiro Bay said it was "a mean jolt, like a truck hitting the house, it rocked the house".And a listener in Blenheim reported: "Heard quake coming, as we often do here - a heavy freight train getting closer, rumbling sound increasing before strong creaking jolt."Further from the epicentre, in Whanganui, another listener experienced "fine trembling as lead in, then rocking with window sash weights noisy in old two-storey wooden home".One person on Meta-owned social media site Threads described it as the "strongest quake I've felt since those ones in 2016". Another said it "felt stronger than a 5.8"."Well that's a check for damage in the morning one," one person wrote on Bluesky. "The whole house bounced up and down," said another.Several people reported the quake woke them - and the city's birdlife - up."Holy f***in shitballs, that went on for ages," one person posted in the quake's immediate aftermath. "I DO NOT ENJOY THE SHAKEY WAKEY," said another."A lot of shaking at the World Famous Bucket Fountain!," an account on X (formerly Twitter) devoted to the iconic Cuba Street attraction said.Fire and Emergency NZ told RNZ it responded to assist one person in Northland because a door frame had warped and they could not get out. That was so far the only report of damage.Just on Saturday, emergency response teams from across the North Island took part in an exercise in Wellington to test their ability to respond to a large earthquake.This story was originally posted by RNZ News

Auckland overnight motorway closures 6 – 11 October
Auckland overnight motorway closures 6 – 11 October

05 October 2024, 1:11 AM

NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi advises of the following closures for motorway improvements. Work delayed by bad weather will be completed at the next available date, prior to Friday, 11 October 2024.Unless otherwise stated, closures start at 9pm and finish at 5am. Traffic management may be in place before the advertised closure times for the mainline.   NORTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Southbound lanes between Constellation Drive off-ramp and Northcote Road on-ramp, 10 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Constellation Drive southbound on-ramp, 10 OctoberTristram Avenue southbound on-ramp, 10 OctoberSouthbound lanes between Northcote Road off-ramp and Onewa Road on-ramp, 9 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Northcote Road southbound on-ramp, 9 OctoberEsmonde Road southbound on-ramp, 9 OctoberStafford Road northbound off-ramp, 6-8 OctoberCurran Street northbound on-ramp, 6-8 OctoberSOUTHERN MOTORWAY (SH1)Khyber Pass Road southbound on-ramp, 9-10 OctoberSouthbound lanes between Greenlane off-ramp and Mt Wellington Highway on-ramp, 6-7 October (approx. 10:30pm to 5:00am)Greenlane southbound on-ramp, 6-7 OctoberTecoma Street southbound on-ramp, 6-7 OctoberEllerslie-Panmure Highway southbound on-ramp, 6-7 OctoberEllerslie-Panmure Highway northbound on-ramp, 6-7 October Southbound lanes between Mt Wellington Highway off-ramp and East Tamaki Road on-ramp, 8 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Mt Wellington Highway southbound on-ramp, 8 OctoberPrinces Street southbound on-ramp, 8 OctoberHighbrook Drive southbound on-ramp, 8 OctoberManukau northbound off-ramp, 6 OctoberSouthbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 6-8 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)Takanini southbound on-ramp, 6-8 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)Papakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 6-7 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)Southbound lanes between Takanini off-ramp and Drury/SH22 on-ramp, 9-10 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)Takanini southbound on-ramp, 9-10 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)Papakura (Loop) southbound on-ramp, 9-10 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)Papakura (Diamond) southbound on-ramp, 9-10 October (approx. 9:30pm to 5:30am)Papakura northbound off-ramp, 6-7 OctoberNorthbound lanes between Drury/SH22 off-ramp and Papakura on-ramp, 9-10 OctoberDrury northbound on-ramp, 9-10 OctoberNORTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH16)Southbound lanes between Waimauku Roundabout and Trigg Road, 6-10 October (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)Northbound lanes between Foster Road and Waimauku Roundabout, 6-10 October (approx. 8:00pm to 5:00am)SOUTHWESTERN MOTORWAY (SH20)Dominion Road northbound off-ramp, 6-10 OctoberWalmsley Road southbound off-ramp, 10 OctoberSouthbound lanes between Puhinui Road off-ramp and SH1 links, 7-10 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Puhinui Road southbound on-ramp, 7-10 OctoberCavendish Drive southbound on-ramp, 7-10 OctoberLambie Drive southbound on-ramp, 7-10 OctoberSH20 southbound to SH1 northbound link, 7-10 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)SH20 southbound to SH1 southbound link, 7-10 October (approx. 10:00pm to 5:00am)Please follow the signposted detours. NZ Transport Agency thanks you for your co-operation during these essential improvements and maintenance.

MP Chris Penk: Progressing remote building inspections
MP Chris Penk: Progressing remote building inspections

02 October 2024, 6:19 PM

2 October 2024The Government is progressing plans to increase the use of remote inspections to make the building and consenting process more efficient and affordable, Building and Construction Minister Chris Penk says. “We know that the building and construction sector suffers from a lack of innovation. According to a recent report, productivity levels have remained unchanged since 1985, which is staggering given technological advancements since that time.“A key obstacle for improving productivity is the building consent system, which can be complex, unpredictable and costly. In most instances obtaining a Code Compliance Certificate relies on a council officer physically inspecting building work on-site to check it complies with the building consent.“Builders must book inspections in advance and, if the inspection does not go ahead at the expected time, the building work grinds to a halt.“In some parts of the country, like the Mackenzie District, there is only one building inspector who must travel long distances to sites. In other parts of the country inspectors spend long periods of time in congested traffic.“Remote inspections are an important productivity enhancing solution that reduces the need for inspectors to travel, allows more inspections to take place each day and enables inspectors to work across regions. “While some councils already use remote inspections, uptake is low, and practices vary across the country.“There will be some situations where on-site inspections are still needed, for example due to complex construction, lack of internet coverage or where physical testing is needed.“However, in many cases remote inspections may be better than traditional on-site inspections as they allow for more accurate record keeping of the build process, which current and future homeowners can refer to. “We want to hear feedback from the public to ensure we find a solution that provides homeowners and buyers with assurance about the quality and safety of buildings, while also delivering important efficiencies.“We also want to hear from councils who administer the work. The consultation will consider the adoption of remote building inspections in the context of other recently announced policies, including the intention to reform Building Consent Authorities. “These changes are all part of the Government’s economic recovery plan, which is focused on embracing technology, enhancing productivity and reducing compliance costs and barriers to entry.”Public consultation will run until 29 November 2024 The discussion document is available here More on remote inspections, including case study videos can be found here Building consent inspections | Building PerformanceHon Chris Penk

A Rich History of the Matakana Village Pub for sale (Sponsored Content)
A Rich History of the Matakana Village Pub for sale (Sponsored Content)

02 October 2024, 5:26 PM

The historic Matakana Village Pub, steeped in over 120 years of history, is now on the market. Fondly referred to by locals as the "Old Matakana Pub," it has long been a cornerstone of the community, offering a welcoming environment for locals, visitors, and travellers alike. Established in the late 19th century, the pub has played a central role in Matakana's transformation from a quiet rural outpost to a popular destination renowned for its artisanal markets, vineyards, and coastal charm. Generations of patrons have passed through its doors, sharing stories, celebrating milestones, and creating lasting memories. While the pub has modernised over time, it retains much of its original character, including period features that reflect its rich heritage. From its early days of serving weary travellers to becoming the vibrant social hub it is today the Matakana Village Pub remains a living testament to the region's history. A Glimpse into Matakana’s PastWhen the Matakana Village Pub was first established over 120 years ago, it was not only the heart of the community but part of a small cluster of local businesses that catered to the needs of the rural population. Alongside the pub, there was a general store where locals could purchase essential supplies, a blacksmith's shop that provided crucial services for the farming community, and a timber yard, which played a key role in the area’s early economic activity. These businesses formed the backbone of Matakana in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, offering essential services to residents and travellers passing through. The general store, in particular, was a vital hub for the community, while the blacksmith and timber yard supported the region’s growing agricultural and construction needs. Today, Matakana has evolved into a vibrant village, known for its boutique shopping, artisanal markets, vineyards, and coastal beauty, but the legacy of these early businesses still lingers in the town’s character. The Matakana Village Pub, which has been a constant presence throughout these changes, stands as a living link to that bygone era. Photo credit: Bayleys Real EstateIconic Matakana Village trophy – For Sale Now available as a freehold going concern, the property presents significant development and add-value potential. Spanning 1,718 square metres (more or less) of prime real estate in the heart of Matakana Village, the offering includes a 245 square metre (approx.) building currently functioning as a restaurant and bar, with vacant possession available for new ventures. The zoning allows for flexible use, including retail, hospitality, and residential development, making this a rare investment opportunity in one of Auckland's most sought-after areas.Key Features:Land, buildings, and business for saleZoning: Business - Local Centre ZoneFee simple landholding: 1,718 square metres (more or less), centrally located in Matakana VillageEstablished restaurant and bar business: Generating over $3,075,000 (including GST) in annual turnoverGastro-pub and restaurant: Operating six days a week, licensed for dine-in and on-license liquor salesAdd-value potential: Located in a high-demand market with opportunities for expansionEvents: The year-round dining and bar business is complemented by private functions, DJ nights, and live music eventsSituated in a prime position on the main road of Matakana Village, the pub is adjacent to the Matakana Motel and within close proximity to the Matakana Four Square, cinema complex, and the renowned Farmers Markets. The property benefits from road frontage with customer parking located at the rear, accessible via a driveway on the eastern side of the site.Matakana is a vibrant village, home to boutique shopping, galleries, cafes, wine bars, and a cinema complex. It is the heart of the picturesque Matakana Wine Region, known for its vineyards and olive groves, and serves as a gateway to the stunning east coast beaches, holiday destinations, and regional parks. Just a 45-minute drive north of Auckland, Matakana Village offers a truly unique lifestyle experience.For further information and to assist with your assessment of this opportunity, head to the listing.Contact Chris BlairCommercial, Industrial and Development Sales and Leasing, Warkworth+64 21 314 [email protected]

UPDATED: Weather Warnings in place
UPDATED: Weather Warnings in place

02 October 2024, 1:31 AM

UPDATED 1.24pm - new watches in placeNorthland Region-Heavy Rain Watch-Period: 10hrs from 1pm - 11pm Wed, 2 OctArea: NorthlandForecast: Periods of heavy rain, and amounts may approach warning criteria. Localised downpours possible, especially from evening. Moderate chance of upgrading to a Warning.-Severe Thunderstorm Watch-Period: 9hrs from 8pm Wed, 2 Oct - 5am Thu, 3 OctArea: Northland, Auckland, Great Barrier IslandForecast: A series of active fronts preceded by a strong and moist northeast flow move onto northern parts of the North Island from this afternoon, reaching Auckland tonight. About Northland and Auckland (including Great Barrier Island), there is a moderate risk of some thunderstorms being severe between 8pm Wednesday and 5am Thursday, producing localised downpours of 25 to 40 mm/h. This risk should ease in Northland around 2am. Note, these downpours could occur with or without thunderstorms. Rainfall of this intensity can cause surface and/or flash flooding, especially about low-lying areas such as streams, rivers or narrow valleys, and may also lead to slips. Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain. Some of these thunderstorms may also be squally, and produce strong wind gusts of 80 to 100 km/h or possiblly stronger. Wind gusts of this strength can cause some damage, including trees and power lines, and may make driving hazardous.Warkworth / Rodney Region-Severe Thunderstorm Watch -Period:  9hrs from 8pm Wed, 2 Oct - 5am Thu, 3 OctArea:  Northland, Auckland, Great Barrier IslandForecast:  A series of active fronts preceded by a strong and moist northeast flow move onto northern parts of the North Island from this afternoon, reaching Auckland tonight. About Northland and Auckland (including Great Barrier Island), there is a moderate risk of some thunderstorms being severe between 8pm Wednesday and 5am Thursday, producing localised downpours of 25 to 40 mm/h. This risk should ease in Northland around 2am. Note, these downpours could occur with or without thunderstorms. Rainfall of this intensity can cause surface and/or flash flooding, especially about low-lying areas such as streams, rivers or narrow valleys, and may also lead to slips. Driving conditions will also be hazardous with surface flooding and poor visibility in heavy rain. Some of these thunderstorms may also be squally, and produce strong wind gusts of 80 to 100 km/h or possiblly stronger. Wind gusts of this strength can cause some damage, including trees and power lines, and may make driving hazardous.-Strong Wind Watch-Period: 9hrs from 11pm Wed, 2 Oct - 8am Thu, 3 OctArea: Great Barrier Island and Coromandel PeninsulaForecast: Northeast winds may approach severe gale in exposed places. Moderate chance of upgrading to a Warning.

Abbey Caves tragedy: Whangārei Boys' High board to pay more than $500k after student's death
Abbey Caves tragedy: Whangārei Boys' High board to pay more than $500k after student's death

30 September 2024, 7:17 PM

Peter de GraafWhangārei Boys' High School has been ordered to pay more than half a million dollars in reparations to the victims of a caving tragedy, including the family of a 15-year-old boy who lost his life.The school was sentenced in the Whangārei District Court on Friday on two charges laid by WorkSafe of putting people at risk of serious injury or death.They arose from the death of 15-year-old Karnin Ahorangi Petera in a school trip to Abbey Caves on 9 May 2023.Judge Greg Davis would have also ordered the school board to pay a fine of about $300,000 - reduced from the starting point of $600,000 for the early guilty plea and other factors - but remitted the fine because the board was unable to pay.There were also concerns that making the school pay a fine could have a negative effect on student education, including for survivors of the ill-fated trip who were still at the school.The board was also ordered to pay just over $10,000 in costs to WorkSafe.Alicia Toki reads her victim impact statement, with partner Andre Petera and lawyer Ellie Harrison. Photo: RNZ / Peter de GraafAndre Petera and Alicia Toki spoke in detail during the sentencing, sharing their heartbreak and the multitude of ways their lives have been turned upside-down by the death of their youngest son in the tragedy.Karnin, who was 15, died after he was swept away by the powerful current inside the flooded cave.The other 16 boys on the trip, and two adults, managed to get out.The court was packed with more than 60 people - double the normal capacity - including whānau, family members of some of the other boys, and the school board.The sentencing opened with karakia and waiata, and Judge Greg Davis addressed the whānau at length in te reo.Karnin Petera, 15, loved all water sports. Photo: SUPPLIEDThe couple's victim impact statement also laid bare the events leading up to their son's death, what they saw as the school's repeated brushing-off of their concerns about heavy rain, and the ongoing impact on their employment and mental and physical heath.They also paid tribute to their son, nicknamed Tino for his enthusiastic embrace of life, who they said loved te reo and showed great leadership in tikanga Māori.They described him as funny, a natural performer, outdoorsy and active, with a particular love of basketball and anything to do with water - diving, surfing, bodyboarding, and doing bombs in the lake.Petera and Toki were too upset to read the rest of their statement, so their lawyer Ellie Harrison - who is acting for the family pro bono - took over, also fighting back tears at times.Harrison said Tino's Year 11 outdoor education group was originally meant to go rock climbing but that was changed to caving instead, ironically due to forecast bad weather.Both parents repeatedly asked the school in preceding days if the trip was still going ahead, given the heavy rain falling on Whangārei.Judge Greg Davis at the sentencing. Photo: RNZ / Peter de GraafThey knew the caves flooded from time to time, but Toki said she was convinced the school would not let the trip go ahead if it was not safe."I had so much trust that the school would look after my son," she said in her statement.That morning, after Petera dropped their son off, heavy rain continued to fall and he rang the school office several times to express his concerns.He was brushed off each time but when he called again, some time before 10am, it was clear from the receptionist's tone that something was wrong.Toki was not answering her phone so he drove to her workplace. On the way, friends texted him to ask if he had heard about students being trapped in the cave."I was very angry that the school and everyone else in Whangārei seemed to know about this, but the school would not communicate with me," Petera said.When they arrived at the caves, the rain was torrential and a police cordon was already in place.They were told the boys were being taken back to school by bus, and they should go there. Police would not say if all the boys were out of the cave.At the school, principal Karen Smith gave them the awful news."She said, 'All the other kids have come back except Karnin. We haven't been able to locate your son'. … I was in shock. Andre was rolling on the ground screaming. So was his mum."The family drove back to the caves, where a rescue team was still looking for Tino.Petera said he collapsed, started vomiting and was put in a wheelchair. At some point in the evening he was put in ambulance and taken to hospital.Shortly afterwards, rescuers told Toki they had found Tino's body. It took another hour-and-a-half to get him out.A cousin chased down the ambulance, which brought Petera back to the caves."As soon as Tino was brought up out of the caves, six moreporks started calling. As soon as he left, they stopped. It was his spirit that was getting released. It was a tohu [sign]," Petera said.The couple also spoke of the toll on their relationships, health and work. Both had to pass up new jobs and they had to move house.Petera said he suffered panic attacks and was sometimes unable to drive; he used to love spending time at the beach with his family but was now afraid of water.Both said their interactions with the school since Tino's death had amplified their frustrations.They felt the principal had "passed the buck" to the teachers involved with the caving trip, instead of taking responsibility for broader failings in the school's health and safety culture.The restorative justice process they went through with the principal and outdoor education teachers - who they still held responsible, in some respects - was, however, well run and gave them the opportunity to say what they needed to say.Both wanted the school to further review its health and safety practices, and called on the Ministry of Education to provide stricter guidelines for outdoor education, especially water-based activities."Tino loved outdoor education and he learned so well outside the classroom environment. We also really support outdoor education. But we just don't want any more children or teachers to die or be seriously injured through education."'Neither shy nor cocky'Many other people, including the teachers on the ill-fated trip and parents of Tino's friends and schoolmates, shared harrowing victim impact statements.They spoke of devastating psychological effects, flashbacks, loss of faith in the school, being tortured by survivor's guilt, and Tino's potential that would now never be realised.Difficulty in getting help, such as counselling, was another common theme.Tino's uncle, Karl Petera, spoke of the teen's enthusiasm and his ability in te reo."He was neither shy nor cocky, he had an inner confidence that came from knowing his whakapapa. He could light up a room with his smile."School accepts responsibility for tragedyLawyer Marie Wisker, acting for the Whangārei Boys' High School board, said the school fully accepted responsibility and was devastated by what had occurred.The school also acknowledged the processes it had in place at the time were insufficient, and that those on the trip were put at significant risk.She said the school felt deep sorrow, in particular for the loss suffered by Karnin's family.Addressing the whānau in court, Judge Davis said nothing he could say could ease the pain of losing a child."All I can do is hope that sentencing will bring some measure of closure for you all," he said."This is a tragedy not only for the Petera whānau, an indescribable tragedy, but also for all of the young men on the trip, and all of those associated, directly and indirectly, with what happened that day. I imagine it is something people will think about for the rest of their days."Details of how the $500,000-plus in reparations will be divided up among the victims - Karnin Petera's family, the 16 surviving boys, a teacher and an outdoor education contractor - have been suppressed.This story was originally published by RNZ

Government signs off on new speed limit rules reversing blanket speed limit reductions
Government signs off on new speed limit rules reversing blanket speed limit reductions

28 September 2024, 11:30 PM

The government has taken the last steps to reverse Labour's blanket speed-limit reductions, by signing off a new speed limit rule.Minister of Transport Simeon Brown said by 1 July next year, speed limits would be returned to the previous settings.Under the rule change, reduced variable speed limits would operate outside schools during pick-up and drop-off times, and motorists would be able to drive at up to 120km/h on Roads of National Significance.Brown said the changes would improve traffic flows."Throughout the world 50 kilometres per hour is a speed used as the right speed limit to keep urban roads flowing smoothly and safely, and our sensible approach will bring New Zealand into closer alignment with other countries that have strong, safe records on their roads such as Norway, Denmark and Japan."Road safety experts have been opposed to the move to change speed limitsEarlier this month, local and international road safety and health experts penned an open letter warning that reversing speed limit reductions would increase deaths and serious injuries.Brown said it was police breath-testing, not lower speed limits, that lowered the road toll during the last government."It's gone down because we've seen a significant increase in the number of breath tests undertaken by police. That numbers now well above three million in the last financial year. And there's been 37 fewer fatalities on our roads in that period of time."Focusing police on high-risk times and locations would keep the road toll down, he said.Reduced speed limits outside schools at pick-up and drop-off times would prioritise the safety of young Kiwis, he said."By 1 July 2026, local streets outside a school will be required to have a 30km/h variable speed limit. Rural roads that are outside schools will be required to have variable speed limits of 60km/h or less."Experts had pointed to studies showing 85 percent of accidents around schools happened outside of when variable speed limits were operating.In response, Brown said variable speed limits targeted the times with the highest risk, without slowing down drivers."The risk to children is 2.7 times higher during pick-up and drop-off times, and that's why we're focusing on those particular times of day."But as I said, it doesn't make sense to slow the tradie heading to work at 5 o'clock in the morning, to have to crawl around at 30 kilometres per hour."The changes would support freight and economic activity, and more than 65 percent of submitters supported the plan, Brown said.Labour's transport spokesperson, Tangi Utikere, said the government is ignoring the evidence on safety by raising speed limits.He said the evidence that higher speeds result in more deaths is overwhelming."Simeon Brown can kid himself about very aspects of data, but the reality is very straightforward: The slower the vehicles are going when impact occurs, the increased likelihood that someone is going to come out of that in a better condition than if they were going to be speeding."He said the government is overwriting local decisions, and the change will force councils to go back on decisions they made in consultation with their communities."This is clearly a government that is not concerned about decisions taken at a local level. They have proven through their actions that they have the mentality that they know best and they simply want councils to follow through and do what they want them to."This story was originally published by RNZ

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