Northland news in brief: Kai Iwi Lakes conservation event; ‘unexplained’ death; and house fire investigated

Night snorkelling at Kai Iwi Lakes, Northland.

Conservation highlighted

More than 150 residents experienced the wonders of Kai Iwi Lakes on February 1 – during the day and by torchlight after sunset. Participants encountered an array of aquatic life, including eels, common bullies and the pest species gambusia. It was the seventh year in a row Mountains to Sea Conservation Trust has run the event, with support from Kaipara District Council and the Taharoa Governance Committee. Department of Conservation and Northland Regional Council also attended and educated people about efforts to prevent more pest species from becoming established.

Pedestrian killed

A pedestrian was killed after being hit by a car in Kaiikanui Rd, Helena Bay, on Thursday about 11.15am. Inquiries to determine the circumstances of the crash are under way.

Death ‘unexplained’

Police are investigating a sudden death at a Te Kamo rest home on Tuesday afternoon. The circumstances were unexplained and required further inquiriest, a police statement said. Police are awaiting the results of an autopsy to determine the next steps.

House fire investigated

A house fire in the Far North on Wednesday night is being probed by fire investigators. The fire in Waimamaku, State Highway 12, started about 8pm in the home’s kitchen and spread to the roof cavity. Firefighters from Ōmāpere and Rāwene were able to contain the fire by 8.45pm, but one person needed ambulance treatment.

DoC reserve blaze

Firefighters needed a helicopter and portable pumps to put out a fire in a Department of Conservation reserve in Onerahi on Tuesday evening. Fire and Emergency was called shortly before 7pm to the fire on the Waimahanga Walkway off George Pt Rd. The fire was about 10m x 30m, but quickly spreading through native bush, shift manager Josh Pennefather said. The helicopter and multiple support vehicles were required to control the blaze, which was contained by 9.30pm, he said. Contractors then established a perimeter around the site to ensure the fire did not start up again.

Offensive weapon charge

Northland police charged a wanted man with possession of an offensive weapon after he was found with a machete shoved down his pants. Operation Waitangi patrollers spotted the 31-year-old who had a warrant for his arrest walking Selwyn St in Paihia on Sunday afternoon. Northland district prevention manager Inspector Dean Robinson said officers arrested the man and conducted a search whereby they found a machete down the inside of his pants. Robinson said the incident was an example of police keeping offensive weapons out of the community. The man was remanded in custody until his next appearance, at Whangārei District Court this month.

Festive colours

Colours in the Park 2025, to be held on Sunday at Whangārei’s William Fraser Memorial Park, promises to be a festival celebrating diversity, unity and joy. The free event starts at 10am and includes a chance to throw and play with vibrant, stain-free, eco-friendly colour powders. There will also be live cultural performances, family activities, and artisan and food stalls.