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National News
Police release pictures of Monk attackers
Counties/Manukau Police have retrieved CCTV footage of men they believe were involved in the aggravated robbery of the Buddhist Monk at the Bombay Temple in Beaver Rd last night.
The victim, a 58 year-old Monk, was bashed with a baseball bat, handcuffed and stomped on by three men who Police say are seriously lacking any moral fortitude.
The victim is second from the left hand side of the picture.
Anyone with information about these men and where they might be located is urged to contact Counties/Manukau CIB on 09 2611 300 or e-mail thomas.gollan@police.govt.nz
Anyone wanting to remain anonymous can call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Waikato Police release CCTV footage from aggravated robbery
Waikato Police are seeking help from the public following a series of aggravated robberies in Hamilton.
About 8:15pm on Thursday 15 August 2013, the shopkeeper at Super Liquor Lynden Court, Chartwell was the victim of an aggravated robbery.
Two males entered the store and threatened the shopkeeper.
They took cash from the till and an amount of alcohol before running into Rossister Place where Police believe a vehicle may have been waiting.
About 8:10pm on Friday the 16th of August 2013, Police believe the same two offenders entered the Tuhikaramea Superette Hamilton. One was in possession of a crescent and the other had a pistol.
They again threatened the two shopkeepers demanding cash and cigarettes before leaving with both.
About 10:25pm they targeted the TAB, adjacent to the Workingman's Club on King St Hamilton.
The offenders entered by smashing the front window and threatened the staff member with a pistol, demanding access to the safe.
They left the scene with an amount of cash and other items.
In all three incidents, the offenders were wearing similar clothing and made little or no attempt to disguise their identities.
Police are appealing for help from the public in identifying the persons in the attached CCTV photos while urging caution that these men should not be approached. Police are concerned with the escalation in their activity and are appealing for help from the public to prevent further offending.
Persons with any information are requested to please contact Acting Detective Sergeant Andrew Mortimore at the Hamilton Police on 8586200 or anonymously via crime stoppers.
Two males entered the store and threatened the shopkeeper.
They took cash from the till and an amount of alcohol before running into Rossister Place where Police believe a vehicle may have been waiting.
About 8:10pm on Friday the 16th of August 2013, Police believe the same two offenders entered the Tuhikaramea Superette Hamilton. One was in possession of a crescent and the other had a pistol.
They again threatened the two shopkeepers demanding cash and cigarettes before leaving with both.
About 10:25pm they targeted the TAB, adjacent to the Workingman's Club on King St Hamilton.
The offenders entered by smashing the front window and threatened the staff member with a pistol, demanding access to the safe.
They left the scene with an amount of cash and other items.
In all three incidents, the offenders were wearing similar clothing and made little or no attempt to disguise their identities.
Police are appealing for help from the public in identifying the persons in the attached CCTV photos while urging caution that these men should not be approached. Police are concerned with the escalation in their activity and are appealing for help from the public to prevent further offending.
Persons with any information are requested to please contact Acting Detective Sergeant Andrew Mortimore at the Hamilton Police on 8586200 or anonymously via crime stoppers.
Extra patrols after earthquakes
Wellington District Police wish to reassure the community that whilst the earthquakes have continued, no significant damage has occurred overnight. Police and the Wellington City Council evacuated an area of Luke's Lane last night due to a serious risk from a damaged lift shaft which will be demolished today.
Police have not received any significant increase in emergency calls and the roads are now moving freely after the increased road congestion caused last night by people trying to leave the city.
Wellington District Commander, Superintendent Sue Schwalger, says "It will be another anxious time for the community while we ride out this string of quakes. Police are providing extra patrols on the city streets tonight to ensure community safety".
"As with the previous series of earthquakes, Police anticipate a decrease in calls for service as most people have left the city. The extra patrols provide a greater visible Police presence so that the community can feel safe and assured that Police can respond to any emergency".
“Police have resources available throughout the Wellington District and we will continue to respond to emergency calls from the public across the District as normal.”
Wellington District Commander, Superintendent Sue Schwalger, says "It will be another anxious time for the community while we ride out this string of quakes. Police are providing extra patrols on the city streets tonight to ensure community safety".
"As with the previous series of earthquakes, Police anticipate a decrease in calls for service as most people have left the city. The extra patrols provide a greater visible Police presence so that the community can feel safe and assured that Police can respond to any emergency".
“Police have resources available throughout the Wellington District and we will continue to respond to emergency calls from the public across the District as normal.”
Investigation into accidental police shooting
Police are continuing their investigations today into the non-intentional shooting of a man in Hastings by police yesterday evening.
Iriheke Te Kani Manu Pere, 33, of Hastings, was injured when a police firearm was accidentally discharged during his arrest outside a Hastings house.
He is currently in a serious but stable condition in Wellington Hospital.
Police were called to a Karamu Rd house around 5.30pm yesterday after members of his family became concerned about his behaviour, including his possession of a firearm that he had previously presented at family members. Consequently, armed police were sent to deal with the incident.
Members of the Hawke's Bay Armed Offenders Squad arrived at the house and made a voice appeal for Mr Pere to come out. He walked out of the house as directed and lay face-down on the front lawn while police attached plastic restraints to his hands. He was fully compliant during the arrest. Police then cleared the house and found a firearm under a bed.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Investigations Glenn Dunbier said at that point police officers moved forward to lift Mr Pere to his feet, including an AOS member. It was at this time that the Bushmaster rifle carried by the AOS member accidentally discharged.
Mr Pere suffered a single gunshot wound to his upper right middle back region. He was immediately given First Aid by police staff at the scene and was taken to hospital by ambulance. Mr Pere was transferred to Wellington Hospital around 10pm last night.
An internal police investigation is underway headed by Detective Superintendent Paul Kench from Wellington. The investigating team will also include specialist interviewers from outside the Eastern District. The Independant Police Conduct Authority is also conducting their own investigation.
Mr Dunbier said none of Mr Pere's actions during the course of the arrest had contributed to the shooting. He had been compliant and was not resisting police.
Police had been with Mr Pere's family last night and had accompanied them to Wellington this morning to be with him. The family were understandably shocked but were coming to terms with what had taken place.
Police this morning were speaking with local residents and any other possible witnesses to the shooting. ESR staff are due at the scene later this morning.
Forensic tests would be carried out on the firearm to determine if there was any possible malfunction. The officer involved is currently on leave and will be interviewed in due course by investigating officers. All staff who were at the scene are also being interviewed.
"The officer involved is understandably extremely upset by what has happened and we have support mechanisms in place for him. He is more concerned about Mr Pere's condition," Mr Dunbier said.
Mr Dunbier said police were taking the incident extremely seriously.
"This is a terrible tragedy and we will be conducting a thorough and robust investigation into what took place and how the firearm came to be discharged in such a manner.
"At this point in time we cannot confirm why the firearm was discharged and whether it was human error or a firearm malfunction. That will be revealed during the course of the investigation. We have a lot of work to do over coming weeks to determine exactly what happened and how it happened," Mr Dunbier said.
He is currently in a serious but stable condition in Wellington Hospital.
Police were called to a Karamu Rd house around 5.30pm yesterday after members of his family became concerned about his behaviour, including his possession of a firearm that he had previously presented at family members. Consequently, armed police were sent to deal with the incident.
Members of the Hawke's Bay Armed Offenders Squad arrived at the house and made a voice appeal for Mr Pere to come out. He walked out of the house as directed and lay face-down on the front lawn while police attached plastic restraints to his hands. He was fully compliant during the arrest. Police then cleared the house and found a firearm under a bed.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Investigations Glenn Dunbier said at that point police officers moved forward to lift Mr Pere to his feet, including an AOS member. It was at this time that the Bushmaster rifle carried by the AOS member accidentally discharged.
Mr Pere suffered a single gunshot wound to his upper right middle back region. He was immediately given First Aid by police staff at the scene and was taken to hospital by ambulance. Mr Pere was transferred to Wellington Hospital around 10pm last night.
An internal police investigation is underway headed by Detective Superintendent Paul Kench from Wellington. The investigating team will also include specialist interviewers from outside the Eastern District. The Independant Police Conduct Authority is also conducting their own investigation.
Mr Dunbier said none of Mr Pere's actions during the course of the arrest had contributed to the shooting. He had been compliant and was not resisting police.
Police had been with Mr Pere's family last night and had accompanied them to Wellington this morning to be with him. The family were understandably shocked but were coming to terms with what had taken place.
Police this morning were speaking with local residents and any other possible witnesses to the shooting. ESR staff are due at the scene later this morning.
Forensic tests would be carried out on the firearm to determine if there was any possible malfunction. The officer involved is currently on leave and will be interviewed in due course by investigating officers. All staff who were at the scene are also being interviewed.
"The officer involved is understandably extremely upset by what has happened and we have support mechanisms in place for him. He is more concerned about Mr Pere's condition," Mr Dunbier said.
Mr Dunbier said police were taking the incident extremely seriously.
"This is a terrible tragedy and we will be conducting a thorough and robust investigation into what took place and how the firearm came to be discharged in such a manner.
"At this point in time we cannot confirm why the firearm was discharged and whether it was human error or a firearm malfunction. That will be revealed during the course of the investigation. We have a lot of work to do over coming weeks to determine exactly what happened and how it happened," Mr Dunbier said.
Fatal crash near Rotorua
Police and other emergency services are on the scene of a serious crash
involving a truck and a car.
The crash happened after 11am on SH30 just west of the intersection with Lake Rotokawau Rd, Tikitere, Rotorua District.
One person is believed to have died in the crash and others are injured, but
no details about number or their condition are known at this time.
SH30 is now closed and diversions are in place. Police urge motorists to
avoid the area if possible and warn there will be delays.
One person is believed to have died in the crash and others are injured, but
no details about number or their condition are known at this time.
SH30 is now closed and diversions are in place. Police urge motorists to
avoid the area if possible and warn there will be delays.
A Motorist traveling towards Whakatane from Rotorua said she was diverted via SH33 towards Paengaroa on SH2.
Photo/Cameron Avery
Guilty plea in Auckland High Court
Mathew Shane Ellery pleaded guilty to the murder of six month old Serenity Jay Scott-Dinnington in the Auckland High Court yesterday.
Serenity was injured in her Ngaruawahia home on the 26th April 2011. She died of a traumatic head injury two days later in Auckland's Starship Hospital.
Police wish to express their thanks to the Ngaruawahia community for all their support and encouragement during the investigation into Serenity's death. The townsfolk turned their outrage at the crime into practical support and help for the investigative team. This played a significant part in the successful resolution of the investigation.
The investigation itself was lengthy and challenging for the Police team and experts who assisted. Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Greene says the plea is a tribute to their dedication and resolve and that ultimately some justice has been achieved for baby Serenity.
Detective Senior Sergeant Greene said the case reinforced that the most important role for all parents and carers of children is to love, care for and protect their children.
Police wish to express their thanks to the Ngaruawahia community for all their support and encouragement during the investigation into Serenity's death. The townsfolk turned their outrage at the crime into practical support and help for the investigative team. This played a significant part in the successful resolution of the investigation.
The investigation itself was lengthy and challenging for the Police team and experts who assisted. Detective Senior Sergeant Mark Greene says the plea is a tribute to their dedication and resolve and that ultimately some justice has been achieved for baby Serenity.
Detective Senior Sergeant Greene said the case reinforced that the most important role for all parents and carers of children is to love, care for and protect their children.
Wellington 6.2 quake update
Wellington CBD is open for business as usual, however some areas may be cordoned off due to broken glass. Please respect cordons and exercise care.
An information centre for affected residents will be open at Wellington City Council, 101 Wakefield Street, from 10am-4pm for the next few days.
Aftershocks are continuing. Some buildings have sustained minor damage but there have been no reports of major structural damage so far.
Details follow.
UTILITIES:
All power and water throughout the region has been restored.
TRANSPORT:
Roads: All roads are open.
Buses: Bus services are operating.
Trains: Trains have resumed normal service.
Airport: Wellington airport is open.
Ferries: The Interislander ferries are operating as normal.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS:
Network congestion has eased - however please remember to text rather than call if significant aftershocks occur.
BUILDINGS:
There are no reports of significant structural damage. Inspections will continue throughout the weekend.
Lukes Lane is closed and buildings around the area have been evacuated, due to damage to the lift tower damaged in the July earthquake. Please respect the cordons and do not enter the area. Demolition of the lift tower is planned to begin from this morning.
Chews Lane is closed due to minor debris.
Parts of Bolton Street footpath at the Terrace are closed, due to broken glass.
Some other pedestrian areas in the CBD may be cordoned off due to broken glass - please respect cordons and exercise care.
Aftershocks are continuing. Some buildings have sustained minor damage but there have been no reports of major structural damage so far.
Details follow.
UTILITIES:
All power and water throughout the region has been restored.
TRANSPORT:
Roads: All roads are open.
Buses: Bus services are operating.
Trains: Trains have resumed normal service.
Airport: Wellington airport is open.
Ferries: The Interislander ferries are operating as normal.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS:
Network congestion has eased - however please remember to text rather than call if significant aftershocks occur.
BUILDINGS:
There are no reports of significant structural damage. Inspections will continue throughout the weekend.
Lukes Lane is closed and buildings around the area have been evacuated, due to damage to the lift tower damaged in the July earthquake. Please respect the cordons and do not enter the area. Demolition of the lift tower is planned to begin from this morning.
Chews Lane is closed due to minor debris.
Parts of Bolton Street footpath at the Terrace are closed, due to broken glass.
Some other pedestrian areas in the CBD may be cordoned off due to broken glass - please respect cordons and exercise care.
Man in hospital after being accidentally shot by police
A 33-year-old Hastings man is currently in Hawke’s Bay Regional Hospital after he was shot when a police firearm was accidentally discharged this afternoon.
Police were called to a house in Karamu Rd, Hastings around 5pm after concerns about the behaviour of the man, who had pointed a firearm at his mother two days ago.
Family rang police this afternoon after concerns about his behaviour.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Investigations Glenn Dunbier said the man had been taken into custody by police and was lying on the ground when it appears a police firearm was accidentally discharged towards the man.
The man was taken immediately to hospital by ambulance.
Mr Dunbier said two investigations into the shooting were underway by police and the Independent Police Complaints Authority.
Police were speaking with the man’s family this evening.
“This is a very serious event that police will be looking into thoroughly. We will be interviewing everyone who was at the scene at the time of the incident as part of our investigations, our thoughts are with the man and his family at this time and we will be liaising closely with them,” Mr Dunbier said.
Hero officer's thoughts are with family of crash victim
The Tauranga officer who is being hailed a hero for saving the life of a crash victim earlier this week says his heart goes out to the family of Greg Woledge who died in the crash.
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| Deane O'Connor |
Constable Deane O'Connor, who has been a police officer for 13-and-a-half year, is still not ready to speak publicly about his actions. The ordeal has taken its toll both physically and emotionally and he is requesting his privacy to fully recover and spend some quality time with his family.
He is, however very aware of the effect that events on Monday night have had on those involved, the Tauranga community, and in particular the family of Mr Woledge, and the friend who survived, so he has agreed to make some limited comment through the Police.
"It was one of the difficult things while we were in the water because he [the passenger] knew his friend was gone," said Deane. "It's very hard because you feel elated that someone has survived, but you also can't help feeling for the family who have lost someone, especially someone who is a young dad. I've got four kids and I'd be devastated. My heart goes out to his family."
Deane, who wouldn't call himself a strong swimmer, credits his own survival in part to the unnamed passenger. The pair talked the whole time they were in the water.
"It was just about keeping each other happy and keeping going. We just talked about all sorts; I can't remember what. My focus was just on keeping him calm. I knew I could last as long as my body would let me; I wasn't tired at all. He pretty much helped me get out in a sense. It's quite scary; you're really fighting that urge to panic and all my talking to him was actually helping to keep me calm."
Constable O'Connor has also been overwhelmed by the response to his actions. Numerous messages of support and best wishes have been sent to Dean via Tauranga Police Station and social media. "It's quite humbling. I don't like being in the limelight; I struggle with this kind of thing and if I could hide under a blanket I would."
One of the most common questions since Monday has been around Deane's thought process that night and what makes someone make the decision to put their life on the line.
He was first on the scene, arriving just a minute or two after the call went out on the radio. As he got out of the car, people were telling him that someone was in the water, going under and screaming for help. Dean immediately took his police safety vest off.
"I hadn't even made a decision at that point; hadn't thought about jumping in. For some reason I just took the vest off and threw it in the back of the car. I went to the bridge, someone had a torch on him and I saw him go under the water and then come back up again. I just started stripping down. I could hear someone saying 'someone has to do something'; and some people saying 'you can't go in, you won't make it' and I kind of just ignored that. It was a calculated risk – I assessed the situation pretty quickly. I don't think I ever thought I couldn't do; it's hard to explain. I've never felt fear like it. I was shaking and am not sure whether that was the cold or the anticipation of what I was about to do. It was only when I climbed over the rail that I actually started thinking 'what am I doing?' and then I saw him go under again and for that split second everything went calm and I just jumped."
He is, however very aware of the effect that events on Monday night have had on those involved, the Tauranga community, and in particular the family of Mr Woledge, and the friend who survived, so he has agreed to make some limited comment through the Police.
"It was one of the difficult things while we were in the water because he [the passenger] knew his friend was gone," said Deane. "It's very hard because you feel elated that someone has survived, but you also can't help feeling for the family who have lost someone, especially someone who is a young dad. I've got four kids and I'd be devastated. My heart goes out to his family."
Deane, who wouldn't call himself a strong swimmer, credits his own survival in part to the unnamed passenger. The pair talked the whole time they were in the water.
"It was just about keeping each other happy and keeping going. We just talked about all sorts; I can't remember what. My focus was just on keeping him calm. I knew I could last as long as my body would let me; I wasn't tired at all. He pretty much helped me get out in a sense. It's quite scary; you're really fighting that urge to panic and all my talking to him was actually helping to keep me calm."
Constable O'Connor has also been overwhelmed by the response to his actions. Numerous messages of support and best wishes have been sent to Dean via Tauranga Police Station and social media. "It's quite humbling. I don't like being in the limelight; I struggle with this kind of thing and if I could hide under a blanket I would."
One of the most common questions since Monday has been around Deane's thought process that night and what makes someone make the decision to put their life on the line.
He was first on the scene, arriving just a minute or two after the call went out on the radio. As he got out of the car, people were telling him that someone was in the water, going under and screaming for help. Dean immediately took his police safety vest off.
"I hadn't even made a decision at that point; hadn't thought about jumping in. For some reason I just took the vest off and threw it in the back of the car. I went to the bridge, someone had a torch on him and I saw him go under the water and then come back up again. I just started stripping down. I could hear someone saying 'someone has to do something'; and some people saying 'you can't go in, you won't make it' and I kind of just ignored that. It was a calculated risk – I assessed the situation pretty quickly. I don't think I ever thought I couldn't do; it's hard to explain. I've never felt fear like it. I was shaking and am not sure whether that was the cold or the anticipation of what I was about to do. It was only when I climbed over the rail that I actually started thinking 'what am I doing?' and then I saw him go under again and for that split second everything went calm and I just jumped."
No reports of significant damage in Wellington
Wellington District police say there are no reports of significant damage in the city so far following this afternoon's 6.2 magnitude earthquake.
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| Photo - Andrew Burns |
While there a number of incidents involving broken glass in the city, there are no reports of any casualties so far.
A number of people have been freed from lifts in the CBD which stopped when the quake struck.
Inspector Pete Cowan of Wellington District police is urging people to be patient:
"With trains temporarily suspended and many people leaving the city early police are asking people to be patient as they head home this afternoon.
"There is significant traffic on city centre roads and many people walking home and we ask people to take extra care.
A number of people have been freed from lifts in the CBD which stopped when the quake struck.
Inspector Pete Cowan of Wellington District police is urging people to be patient:
"With trains temporarily suspended and many people leaving the city early police are asking people to be patient as they head home this afternoon.
"There is significant traffic on city centre roads and many people walking home and we ask people to take extra care.
 |
| Photo - Emily O'Halloran |
"We also ask people to check on any vulnerable neighbours and alert emergency services if they need assistance." said Mr Cowan.
Police are working with the fire service and Wellington City Council staff as assessments take place around the city.
The Police communications centre in Wellington has reported no significant increase in calls since the earthquake.
Elsewhere in Tasman district there are reports of some damage to buildings in and around the Seddon area, but there are no reports of any injuries.
SH1 between Weld Pass and Kaikoura is currently closed due to a rockfall.
*A Magnitude 6.6 earthquake centered 10km South East of Seddon has affected the Wellington region and aftershocks are continuing. There are currently no tsunami warnings in place.
Police are working with the fire service and Wellington City Council staff as assessments take place around the city.
The Police communications centre in Wellington has reported no significant increase in calls since the earthquake.
Elsewhere in Tasman district there are reports of some damage to buildings in and around the Seddon area, but there are no reports of any injuries.
SH1 between Weld Pass and Kaikoura is currently closed due to a rockfall.
*A Magnitude 6.6 earthquake centered 10km South East of Seddon has affected the Wellington region and aftershocks are continuing. There are currently no tsunami warnings in place.
We have reports of minor damage to buildings but no reports of severe structural damage.
After some initial disruptions, water and power supplies are now fully operational throughout the region.
There are reports of serious traffic congestion. Expect delays and make room for emergency services to get through.
There are no reports of serious damage or disruptions in Kapiti Coast, Wairarapa, Porirua, Upper Hutt, and Lower Hutt.
Details follow…
UTILITIES:
All power and water throughout the region has been restored after some localised outages initially.
TRANSPORT:
Roads: All roads are open, however there is heavy congestion. Please allow for delays and allow emergency vehicles through.
Buses: Some bus services are operating but expect delays.
Trains: All train services have been suspended till further notice while tracks are inspected.
Airport: The Wellington airport runway has been inspected and is open but many flights will be disrupted.
TELECOMMUNICATIONS:
Phone networks are extremely busy, please stay off the phones unless absolutely necessary. Text instead of calling where possible.
BUILDINGS:
There are no reports of significant structural damage.
Lukes Lane is closed and has been cordoned off due to damage to the lift tower damaged in the July earthquake. Please respect the cordons and do not enter the area.
Chews Lane is closed due to minor debris.
* Wellington Region Emergency Management Office (WREMOnz)
Large quake hits south of Wellington
A large 6.2 magnitude quake has just hit south of 10 km south-east of Seddon.
The quake struck at 2:31:05 pm this afternoon 10 km south-east of Seddon at a depth of 8km.
Reports are there are cracks in the roads and multiple fires have broken out.
Phone lines are down in and around Wellington.
More soon.
Tough challenge for over 100 CACTUS graduates
Over 100 graduates of the youth CACTUS programme will be coming together in Rotorua this weekend to take on the Tough Guy and Gal Challenge.
CACTUS - the Combined Adolescent Challenge Training Unit and Support programme - is designed to extend a young person's mind and physical capability, with a focus on teamwork, goal setting, leadership and discipline. It aims to give instil discipline and self esteem into young people encouraging them to look and listen before they act and increasing their future opportunities.
The programme which was initially developed and launched by a police officer on the East Coast now operates in a number of locations around New Zealand.
Sgt Steve Sutton is involved in the programme in Rotorua along with his colleagues on the Western Heights Neighbourhood Policing Team. He decided that a good follow-up to the programme would be to bring graduates from different areas together for a team challenge.
Five teams from the Bay of Plenty and Waikato have taken up the opportunity -Rotorua Taupo, Murupara, Te Puke, and Hamilton - and approximately 140 young people aged 16 to 18 will take part.
"It's another opportunity to share an experience of the ethos of what Cactus is all about," said Sgt Sutton. "It's also an opportunity for the young people who have gone through the programme to meet up again and catch up on where life is taking them."
The idea has been supported by Event Promotions who run the Tough Guy and Gal Challenge along with a number of community groups. Each team's overall time will be based on the average of the fastest and slowest male and female in each team. There will be a trophy for the winning team and a barbecue laid on for everyone taking part.
The programme which was initially developed and launched by a police officer on the East Coast now operates in a number of locations around New Zealand.
Sgt Steve Sutton is involved in the programme in Rotorua along with his colleagues on the Western Heights Neighbourhood Policing Team. He decided that a good follow-up to the programme would be to bring graduates from different areas together for a team challenge.
Five teams from the Bay of Plenty and Waikato have taken up the opportunity -Rotorua Taupo, Murupara, Te Puke, and Hamilton - and approximately 140 young people aged 16 to 18 will take part.
"It's another opportunity to share an experience of the ethos of what Cactus is all about," said Sgt Sutton. "It's also an opportunity for the young people who have gone through the programme to meet up again and catch up on where life is taking them."
The idea has been supported by Event Promotions who run the Tough Guy and Gal Challenge along with a number of community groups. Each team's overall time will be based on the average of the fastest and slowest male and female in each team. There will be a trophy for the winning team and a barbecue laid on for everyone taking part.
Edwards' associate also sought by Police
Police searching for 33 year-old Phillip Layton Edwards believe he is in the company of 25 year-old Maryanne Nahi [pic attached], a Maori of thin build who stands about 167cm tall.
Police have a warrant for her arrest which was issued by the Hastings District Court on June 19 for failing to answer District Court bail.
Maryanne Nahi is understood to have connections in Auckland, Kaipara and Wellsford and Police are appealing for any information about her whereabouts and, of course, that of Phillip Edwards.
Detective Inspector Scott Beard says if Maryanne Nahi is assisting Edwards to avoid arrest she could be liable for being an Accessory After the Fact.
"Our advice to both Maryanne and Phillip is to contact Police and arrange to meet with us so that we can talk about events of the past week."
Information can go to the Op Blair 0800 number, 0800 332 334 or Police on 111. Anonymous callers can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Maryanne Nahi is understood to have connections in Auckland, Kaipara and Wellsford and Police are appealing for any information about her whereabouts and, of course, that of Phillip Edwards.
Detective Inspector Scott Beard says if Maryanne Nahi is assisting Edwards to avoid arrest she could be liable for being an Accessory After the Fact.
"Our advice to both Maryanne and Phillip is to contact Police and arrange to meet with us so that we can talk about events of the past week."
Information can go to the Op Blair 0800 number, 0800 332 334 or Police on 111. Anonymous callers can contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Fatal Bridge Crash: Parents pay tribute to their fine son
The parents of Greg Woledge, 24, who was killed after the van he was driving plunged off the Maungatapu Causeway bridge in a horrific crash on Monday night have spoken out.
Parents Kevin and Vivienne Woledge described Greg as a loving, diligent and devoted person and a caring fine son.
"Greg was a healthy 24 year old who had everything to live for. Greg and partner Chelsea were looking forward to the birth of their second child in a few months. He was a gentle caring dad and a loving partner"
Kevin and Vivienne described Greg and his sister Emma love for each other and were the very best of friends.
Greg had just become a qualified electrician and thought the world of the people he worked with and was looking forward to the future. He was a very keen sports person – snow boarding, mountain biking and crossfit. Greg will be sadly missed by us all.
Close call for sleeping driver prompts warning from Police
Hamilton Police are urging drivers with medical conditions to be honest and open with their doctors and to adhere to restrictions of any prescriptions after a sleeping driver managed to drive from the Waikato to Mt Maunganui via Auckland overnight.
Shift Manager, Senior Sergeant Dave Litton, said Police first became aware there was a problem when a 111 call was made by a concerned friend shortly after midnight that a woman who had taken sleeping pills had driven off from her Hamilton home.
"The woman's friend reported the driver had a sleeping disorder and had previously driven off while asleep 10 months ago, ending up in Tauranga.
"Told she had a fondness for the beach we sent patrol cars to SH23 to look out for her car on the route to Raglan while the Northern Communications Centre advised Police in other areas to be on the look out for her car, a silver Toyota hatchback."
Mr Litton said it was established the woman's cell phone was on and she was texting as she drove but those receiving her messages believed she was half asleep.
"Her phone polled in Otara in Counties Manukau about 2am but the vehicle had gone when Police arrived and the next message we received was that she was now heading for the Coromandel.
"While this was going on Police were scanning any reports of unusual or concerning driving as we attempted to find the Toyota and prevent a potential tragedy."
Mr Litton said about 3.45am the woman's phone polled in Te Puna near Tauranga before her car was found up a driveway at her former address in Mt Maunganui about 4.55am.
"The woman's cousin found her, asleep, slumped over the wheel. When woken she had absolutely no recollection of the events overnight and we have sought an urgent order forbidding her to drive and to seek medical advice on her suitability to remain holding her drivers licence.
"While her being found safe and well is a relief for everyone involved the potential for tragedy was huge and we're urging people suffering medical conditions to be open and honest with their doctors and seek advice on if the medication they are prescribed affects their ability to drive or not."
Mr Litton also urged people on such medications to be frank with loved ones and friends so steps can be taken to ensure they don't put themselves or those dearest to them at risk.
"Safer journeys being everyone's responsibility isn't just a slogan it's an obligation we all take when getting behind the wheel. Last night's events could have so easily ended in tragedy which is something I am sure, we all want to avoid."
"The woman's friend reported the driver had a sleeping disorder and had previously driven off while asleep 10 months ago, ending up in Tauranga.
"Told she had a fondness for the beach we sent patrol cars to SH23 to look out for her car on the route to Raglan while the Northern Communications Centre advised Police in other areas to be on the look out for her car, a silver Toyota hatchback."
Mr Litton said it was established the woman's cell phone was on and she was texting as she drove but those receiving her messages believed she was half asleep.
"Her phone polled in Otara in Counties Manukau about 2am but the vehicle had gone when Police arrived and the next message we received was that she was now heading for the Coromandel.
"While this was going on Police were scanning any reports of unusual or concerning driving as we attempted to find the Toyota and prevent a potential tragedy."
Mr Litton said about 3.45am the woman's phone polled in Te Puna near Tauranga before her car was found up a driveway at her former address in Mt Maunganui about 4.55am.
"The woman's cousin found her, asleep, slumped over the wheel. When woken she had absolutely no recollection of the events overnight and we have sought an urgent order forbidding her to drive and to seek medical advice on her suitability to remain holding her drivers licence.
"While her being found safe and well is a relief for everyone involved the potential for tragedy was huge and we're urging people suffering medical conditions to be open and honest with their doctors and seek advice on if the medication they are prescribed affects their ability to drive or not."
Mr Litton also urged people on such medications to be frank with loved ones and friends so steps can be taken to ensure they don't put themselves or those dearest to them at risk.
"Safer journeys being everyone's responsibility isn't just a slogan it's an obligation we all take when getting behind the wheel. Last night's events could have so easily ended in tragedy which is something I am sure, we all want to avoid."
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Police say seizures should serve as warning
Waikato's Police and District Health Board are warning retailers failing to comply with the requirements of the new Psychoactive Substances Act that they face a whole of Government response to their illegal activities.
Congratulating his staff, District Commander, Superintendent Win van der Velde, said today's seizure of over 2000 packets of various synthetic cannabinoid products from a dairy in Beerescourt should send a clear message to retailers how serious authorities take the issue.
"The illegal products were taken from a dairy that was not an approved retailer and both Police and the Waikato District Health Board want to assure the public we are focusing on retailers not adhering to the act.
"The fact we became aware this business was selling these products from information supplied by the public speaks volumes of how serious the community takes this issue and the importance of sharing such information."
Waikato District Health Board health protection advisor Nick Young said today’s seizure was another step in the right direction of both agencies working together to eliminate easy access to psychoactive drugs.
“Symptoms seen include a racing heart, anxiety, panic attacks, agitation, paranoia, violence, hallucinations, seizures and unconscious collapses. Cannabinoids are far from natural and we are working hard with police to ensure compliance with the new legislation.”
Products seized included packets of:
"The latest information on substances banned under the act can be found at www.ndp.govt.nz.
People discovering businesses selling such items should contact Police, or if they can't speak to officers directly, leave information anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555111."
"The illegal products were taken from a dairy that was not an approved retailer and both Police and the Waikato District Health Board want to assure the public we are focusing on retailers not adhering to the act.
"The fact we became aware this business was selling these products from information supplied by the public speaks volumes of how serious the community takes this issue and the importance of sharing such information."
Waikato District Health Board health protection advisor Nick Young said today’s seizure was another step in the right direction of both agencies working together to eliminate easy access to psychoactive drugs.
“Unfortunately there is a misconception out there that these drugs are safe – they're not, and many Emergency Departments will tell you of the adverse and bizarre effects they have on people,” said Mr Young.
“Symptoms seen include a racing heart, anxiety, panic attacks, agitation, paranoia, violence, hallucinations, seizures and unconscious collapses. Cannabinoids are far from natural and we are working hard with police to ensure compliance with the new legislation.”
Products seized included packets of:
Mr van der Velde encouraged concerned parents to take note of the product names and if they had concerns their children may be using them, seek advice from Police or a health professional.
"The latest information on substances banned under the act can be found at www.ndp.govt.nz.
People discovering businesses selling such items should contact Police, or if they can't speak to officers directly, leave information anonymously with Crimestoppers on 0800 555111."
Police name bridge crash victim
Police can now name the man who died when the van he was in crashed off the Maungatapu Bridge, Tauranga, on Monday evening.
The police officer who helped rescue the passenger from the same van can now be named as Constable Deane O'Connor a member of the Strategic Traffic Unit at Western Bay of Plenty Police.
Constable O'Connor does not wish to speak publicly about his actions at this stage. He is a modest man and the enormity of Monday's events is not lost on him. He is taking some time to reflect on what occurred.
Police are continuing to investigate the cause of the crash and are still keen to hear from any witnesses who haven't yet spoken to the police.
Anyone with information about this crash is asked to contact Tauranga Police on 07 577 4300.
Police seek further witnesses to fatal bridge crash
Police investigating a fatal crash on the Mangatapu Bridge, Tauranga last evening (Monday, 12 August) are still keen to hear from any witnesses who haven't yet been spoken to by Police.
The crash occurred at approximately 6.10pm in the centre of the bridge. Early indications suggest that a Mitsubishi vehicle travelling east towards Mount Maunganui drifted across the centre line colliding with a Toyota van travelling in the opposite direction. The van left the bridge and plunged approximately five metres into the water which was five metres deep. The Mitsubishi vehicle spun and another car which had been travelling behind the Mitsubishi struck it.
The drive of the van died and police divers this afternoon recovered his body from the submerged vehicle. A passenger in the van managed to get free from the vehicle and was helped to shore by a police officer who jumped into the water to rescue him. The male driver of the Mitsubishi and a man and a woman from the third vehicle were taken to hospital with minor to moderate injuries.
Anyone with any information about this crash is asked to contact Tauranga Police on 07 577 4300.
Man dies in logging accident
A 51-year-old Tuatapere man died yesterday in what appears to be a workplace accident, which occurred on a rural property on Young Road, Orepuki, Southland.
The incident occurred at about 5pm yesterday (Monday 12 August 2013) when two local men were logging trees, one working on the ground and the other on a digger.
The man working on the ground appears to have been injured while processing logs close to the digger and died at the scene.
Police, St John Ambulance and a paramedic attended soon after the incident occurred. Occupational Safety and Health staff also inspected the site last night.
A post-mortem was being completed today and the matter of the man's death has been reported to the coroner.
Police expect to release the man's name tomorrow.
Search for Julia Springer update
Kapiti Mana Police are continuing a search operation in the hopes of finding any signs of where 53-year-old Julia SPRINGER is.
The search team of 12 has concentrated their search on the area around the coastal track around Pauatahanui Inlet today.
Her Blue Nissan Pulsar hatchback vehicle was located on Grays Road, Plimmerton near the entrance to the Pauatahanui Inlet at 2.30am yesterday morning and was still warm.
Ms SPRINGER, is described as European of medium build with brown shoulder length hair. At the time she was last seen on 11 August, she was wearing a, black puffer jacket, charcoal knitted cardigan, charcoal shirt, blue jeans, black boots and burgundy pink prescription glasses.
Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Oxnam says "Today our search efforts have focussed on the area surrounding her vehicle.
"The search has not revealed any items that would lead us to believe, at this stage, that her disappearance is suspicious or an obvious sign she has left the area.
"There is a possibility she may have made her way into the water so we will be using the National Dive Squad to search the Inlet tomorrow.
"Around the inlet are several private boat houses, I would encourage anyone who owns one of these to check them for any damage or objects that look out of place and to contact Police straight away if they find anything."
Anyone with knowledge of the whereabouts of Julie Ann SPRINGER or who may have seen a female fitting her description are asked to contact Porirua Police on (04) 238 1400.
Her Blue Nissan Pulsar hatchback vehicle was located on Grays Road, Plimmerton near the entrance to the Pauatahanui Inlet at 2.30am yesterday morning and was still warm.
Ms SPRINGER, is described as European of medium build with brown shoulder length hair. At the time she was last seen on 11 August, she was wearing a, black puffer jacket, charcoal knitted cardigan, charcoal shirt, blue jeans, black boots and burgundy pink prescription glasses.
Detective Senior Sergeant Mike Oxnam says "Today our search efforts have focussed on the area surrounding her vehicle.
"The search has not revealed any items that would lead us to believe, at this stage, that her disappearance is suspicious or an obvious sign she has left the area.
"There is a possibility she may have made her way into the water so we will be using the National Dive Squad to search the Inlet tomorrow.
"Around the inlet are several private boat houses, I would encourage anyone who owns one of these to check them for any damage or objects that look out of place and to contact Police straight away if they find anything."
Anyone with knowledge of the whereabouts of Julie Ann SPRINGER or who may have seen a female fitting her description are asked to contact Porirua Police on (04) 238 1400.
Tauranga toddler now received medical treatment
Police have received confirmation that two-year-old Wayne Hauwai has been taken by family members to a doctor for medical attention, received treatment and has now been discharged.
The health and welfare was the focus of the Police appeal and Police are satisfied that those concerns have been addressed. No offences have been disclosed.
Police would like to thank those who assisted with this appeal.
There will be no further police comment.
Police would like to thank those who assisted with this appeal.
There will be no further police comment.
Body of missing motorist recovered
Police Divers have recovered the wreckage and body of the driver of a van that plunged from the Maungatapu Causeway Bridge last night after a horrific crash.
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| Photos - Cameron Avery |
The passenger aged in his 20's managed to escape from the submerged vehicle. Bay of Plenty Area Inspector Clifford Paxton said a police constable jumped into the water to assist the ,man. The pair drifted some distance and eventually managed to get ashore.
The police constable in his 50's who striped down to his underwear to jump into the water and assist the passenger managed to keep hold of the man as the current took them and pull him on to his back. He saw flashlights on the shore from other police members searching and focused on moving towards those lights. After 20 minutes to half an hour the officer managed to get to shore with the man.
Four occupants of the two other vehicles involved were taken to Tauranga hospital after receiving moderate injuries.
The man in his 20's was located in the van witch was recovered using a crane.
His family are in the process of being notified and a formal identification will need to take place. The man will not be named until this process is complete.
Police wish to acknowledge the assistance of the Tauranga Harbour Master and the Mount Surf Lifesaving Club.
Story - Lani Hepi