Northland Regional Council public relations staff member Natasha Stubbing has won the Public Relations Institute of New Zealand's (PRINZ) Young Practitioner award. The judges said Stubbing was the top contender in a strong field of candidates for the award which recognises a practitioner 30-years and under. NRC chairman Bill Shepherd said Stubbing was highly valued for her contribution to the organisation as marketing and engagement manager. That role included facilitating opportunities for councillors and staff to meet with communities, and showcasing the council's work through a range of channels including video and social media.
Court evacuated
A broken pipe in a renovated courtroom in Kaikohe District Court led to the evacuation of staff and court users. An alarm went off about 3.20pm on Wednesday and everyone was advised to briefly assemble just across the road. The case that was being heard was in the process of being adjourned before the evacuation happened and the adjournment was concluded once court resumed. Two fire appliances and police responded but were not required.
Fit volunteers needed
Bay Bush Action needs volunteers to help cut a new 6km trap line to protect kiwi deep in the forest behind Paihia. Volunteers would need to be keen and fit, a spokesman said.
"We supply the loppers, you supply the mahi." Email baybushaction@gmail.com for more.
Car bursts into flames
A police pursuit that began at Awanui on Tuesday night ended on Church Rd, off State Highway 10, after the car crashed and rolled down a bank. The driver and a passenger fled but a second passenger was apprehended. Meanwhile the car burst into flames, the Kaitaia Fire Brigade not being able to save it.
Kerikeri Lotto win
A ticket sold in Kerikeri was among 18 nationally that each won more than $8000 on Lotto Second Division on Wednesday. The ticket, sold at Kerikeri New World, won its holder $8544 in Wednesday night's Lotto draw.
