Northland news in brief: Another Lotto win and fire ban easing

The Lotto numbers fell well for the holder of a ticket sold in Whangārei that won $43,516 on Wednesday night.

$40k Lotto winner

A ticket sold in Whangārei won more than $40,000 on Lotto Second Division on Wednesday night. The ticket, sold at New World Regent, won $43,516. It's the latest in a string of Lotto Second Division wins in Northland this year. Since the start of 2019 there have been 14 Lotto Second Division wins and two Powerball Second Division wins in the region.

Driving charges

A man who drove into a parked car at a supermarket at 11am was breath-tested and allegedly recorded a level four and a half times over the limit. Police say the 67-year-old man allegedly drove into the Pak'nSave carpark in Whangārei and hit a parked car on Wednesday. Officers were called and carried out breath testing procedures. He blew 1153 micrograms of alcohol per litre of breath. The alcohol limit for drivers over 20 is 250mcg. He will appear in Whangārei District Court on March 18.

Fire permits required

From Monday the fire season will be changed to restricted across Northland meaning a permit is required for a fire in the open air. You can apply for a permit at www.havingafire.org.nz or by calling 09 401 0723. You can find a list of authorised fire types (not needing a permit) at https://fireandemergency.nz/fire-seasons-permits/fire-types/

Driver thrown from car

An 18-year-old was taken to Whangārei Hospital in a serious condition after being thrown from the car he was driving when it crashed. The car struck a tree when it went off Puhipuhi Rd about 6pm on Wednesday. Police said the driver and sole occupant was thrown out the door. Investigations were continuing and police were yet to speak to the driver.

Hui rescheduled

A new date has been set for the Ngāti Kahu o Torongare hapū hui. The hui is to discuss hapū goals and aspirations; Treaty negotiations; resource management and local government; Te Huinga - Whangārei District Council's Maori advisory branch, and Te Karearea - the forum between Whangārei hapū representatives of Te Huinga and Whangārei District Council representatives; and more. It was originally planned for March 8 but will now be held on Friday, March 29 at Ngāraratunua Marae from 5pm to 9pm.

Probus marks 25th

The Combined Probus Club of Onerahi is celebrating its 25th anniversary on April 9, from 10am at the Onerahi Bowling Club. Email eileensloper@xtra.co.nz for further information.