More than 160 children aged 8-12 braved mud, hill climbs and the coldest day of the year so far to take part in the annual Mid North inter-school cross country race at Takou Bay. The participating schools were Bay of Islands International Academy, Kaeo Primary, Kerikeri Christian, Kerikeri High, Kerikeri Primary, Oromahoe, Riverview and Springbank. The race was run on a cold but sunny June 23 at Landcorp’s Kapiro Station with St John on hand to treat any injuries. Photos by Peter de Graaf.

Northland stalwart Norman Berryman will be buried in his adopted home of Perth in Western Australia.

Just hours after the shocking news of Northland rugby legend Norm Berryman's death, his fans started calling for the terraces at Toll Stadium in Whangarei to be named after him.

The Centre annual awards and prize-giving were held last weekend and it is congratulations to all the winners of events during the season.

More than 400 paddlers descended on Parua Bay on Saturday for the seventh annual Hoe Matariki Waka Ama Regatta. The 422 paddlers, made up of 49 crews and 40 individuals, took part in four races on Saturday to help celebrate Matariki - Maori New Year. Analatu McKay, one of the organisers, said the forecast heavy winds didn't reach the harbour so the 18km men's and women's races could be held. Ms McKay said a great day was had by all. Northern Advocate photographer John Stone went along to capture the excitement.

A Far North mum says she has laid a complaint with police against former All Black Eric Rush.

Otamatea's premier and reserve grade rugby teams had plenty to play for in round 10 of the Bayleys Southern Districts after two junior players suffered injuries in on-field incidents.

Everything will be on the line for some top-ranked teams when round 11 of the Bayleys Southern Districts Premiers kicks off tomorrow.