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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."
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.
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.
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
Chiefs head to finals after thrilling clash
Defending Super Rugby champions the Chiefs moved a step closer to retaining their title on Saturday night as they edged past the Crusaders 20-19 in nail-biting Hamilton affair.
Tries from Lelia Masaga and Aaron Cruden were enough to see the men from Waikato through to their second final in as many years.
In an all New Zealand affair, it was the Crusaders who took the first-half spoils as Dan Carter came out on top a kicking exchange with Cruden. However, both sides turned up the intensity after the break and it was the Chiefs who eventually prevailed.
Following defeat at the hands of the hosts in last year's semi-final, the Crusaders' quest for vengeance started positively as All Black Dan Carter dissected the uprights on two occasions to give the visitors a six-point lead in the opening quarter.
Dave Rennie's Chiefs registered on the scoreboard midway through the first period when fly-half Aaron Cruden successfully converted a penalty attempt from 35 metres before Carter restored the Crusaders lead with a three-pointer of his own.
The defending champions continued to lack discipline at the breakdown as referee Steve Walsh found them offside for a second time in 10 minutes but Carter was unable to maintain his perfect record from tee as his fourth effort sailed wide.
Todd Blackadder entered the interval the more comfortable of the coaches with his side holding a 9-3 lead while Rennie was left cursing a Chiefs pack which conceded five line-outs in the opening forty minutes.
The Chiefs luck appeared to turn after the break as Carter's penalty kick ricocheted off the upright before Cruden reduced the deficit to three from the tee.
With the tide turning, Chiefs captain Craig Clarke burst through two tackles and charged towards the line, only for Israel Dagg to get home and prevent the try being scored.
The men from Christchurch remained on the racks as the relentless Chiefs attack persisted and was duly rewarded when winger Masaga powered his way across the line with a show of brute force to score the opening try of the match. Cruden subsequently added the extras as the hosts took the lead for the first time.
Cruden continued to play a central role as the Chiefs asserted their authority on the tie with the midfielder racing through the Crusaders defence before touching down under the posts to give himself an easy conversion as his side took an 11-point lead.
Despite conceding 17 points without response in the second half, the Crusaders remained defiant and reaped their rewards when full-back Dagg picked up the ball on the right wing before racing around Asaeli Tikoirotuma to complete a sensational try. Carter slotted the conversion from the sideline to make it a four-point match with 20 minutes left to play.
If the atmosphere in the Waikato Stadium was not hot enough already, it soon reached boiling point as Carter nailed a penalty kick to reduce the Crusaders' shortfall to one.
With the Crusaders in all-out attack, the Chiefs remained resilient as Carter's drop-goal attempt sailed wide of the posts with the siren fast approaching. The Christchurch-based franchise had time for one last attack but were thwarted with seconds left on the clock as the Chiefs turned over and fired the ball into the stands to seal their place in the 2013 final.
The Chiefs will now face either the Bulls or Brumbies, who take to Loftus Versfeld later in the day, next Saturday in Hamilton with the Super Rugby title at stake.
New New World set to open in Te Puke
A brand new store is completing its finishing touches as the eagerly anticipated New World supermarket in Te Puke opens on Tuesday 30 July 2013.
"New World has been in the heart of the Te Puke community since 1978" says Foodstuffs (Auckland) General Manager Property Development, Angela Bull.
"We are delighted to bring a bigger, brighter, modern supermarket to Te Puke which will provide more choice, value and service for all our customers to enjoy. At 2,590m2 in size, it is almost three times bigger than the old store and will have plenty of car parking."
The new store is located on the corner of Jocelyn Street and Commerce Lane, adjacent to Jubilee Park.
Jon Morrison, owner-operator of New World Te Puke says that the continued support and loyalty from our customers has been wonderful.
"The existing 70 New World staff will continue to work in the new store, with a further 20 to 30 additional staff being employed at the larger store," he explains.
"I can’t wait to open the doors to our new store as we have new features such as a bakery and seafood counter. We’ll have a larger range of fresh food and grocery products, along with the same great prices and personal service our customers currently enjoy," says Morrison.
The Western Bay of Plenty District Council has also invested in the area building a new playground and walk way adjacent to the new New World.
One dead in fatal crash
One person is dead after a fatal three car crash on State Highway 29 lower Kaimais.
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| The accident is between Thorn Road and Poripori Road. |
One person is seriously injured and ambulance is treating 4 patients in total.
State Highway 29 is closed at the crash site which is between Poripori Rd and Thorn Road. At the moment no diversion is in place but contractors have been called in to establish diversions.
The Serious Crash Untit has been called to examine the scene.
Truck rolls on roundabout
Police were called to the roundabout of Maungatapu Rd and State Highway 29 in Mt Maunganui after a rubbish truck rolled at around 8.40am this morning.
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| Photos - Cameron Avery |
BOP Live reporter Cameron Avery who was at the scene said the rubbish truck had rolled completely on its side losing its load and blocking part of the State Highway 29 and also the Mt Maunganui exit.
The driver of the truck was uninjured and out of the truck when police arrived.
The truck side swiped a van carrying a trailer when it rolled.
The company is Earthwise Waste Removal based in Tauranga.
Tauranga Police advise motorists travelling in the area to avoid the area if possible and expect delays as contractors work to selvage the wreckage.
The driver of the truck was uninjured and out of the truck when police arrived.
The truck side swiped a van carrying a trailer when it rolled.
The company is Earthwise Waste Removal based in Tauranga.
Tauranga Police advise motorists travelling in the area to avoid the area if possible and expect delays as contractors work to selvage the wreckage.
The wreckage has now been cleared and police say they are investigating the cause of the crash.
4-year-old attacked by dog
A four-year-old boy is in Waikato hospital tonight after being attacked by a dog.
At about 3.30pm the Tauranga based Trust Power Tect Rescue helicopter was dispatched to Waikato hospital, from Tauranga, to transport a 4 year old boy that had been attacked by a dog.
The boy received facial injuries that required specialized treatment at Waikato hospital
The Bop Live understands local council and police are investigating the incident.
Car crash causes power outage
A car that crashed into a power pole and brought down power lines last night caused a large power outage in a number of Tauranga suburbs.
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| The repaired power pole and skid marks from the crash Photo - Cameron Avery |
Emergency services responded to the single vehicle crash and found the one occupant out of the vehicle, he was taken to Tauranga Hospital with an injured arm as police and fire service worked with the power company to repair the downed lines.
The power company arrived shortly after the crash and isolated the power quickly.
Power companies were at the scene this morning attempting to restore power to the homes nearby.
A local resident who lives near where the crash happened said that they still do not have power as of 11am this morning.
Power was restored to some of the effected areas at around 12am, some places in Ohauiti near the crash had there power restored at around 6am this morning.
The cause of the accident is unknown and police are investigating.
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| Skid marks after being marked out by police Photo - Cameron Avery |
Man arrested after stabbing
The male will make his initial appearance in the Tauranga District Court on Thursday 4 July. This follows the investigation of a stabbing which occurred overnight on 5-6 June 2013.
The assault occurred in Rawhiti Street, Greerton, Tauranga, and the victim received a number of stab wounds to his upper body.
He was treated at Tauranga Hospital prior to being discharged. Detective Sergeant Alan KINGSBURY said that the arrest came as the result of quality information which had been supplied by members of the community.
Multiple scrub fires in Omokoroa
Multiple scrub fires in Omokoroa kept fire fighters busy this afternoon after calls from train drivers came through saying there were multiple fires along the side of the railway lines.Protest against Monsanto
Protesters gathered at Red Square in Tauranga today to protest against Monsanto the leading producer of genetically engineered seeds.
Monsanto seeds are not in New Zealand, but Tauranga protest organiser Marty Stewart says New Zealander's should be concerned about the country's food supplies.
Plenty for Everyone
Tourism Bay of Plenty has a new tagline 'Plenty for Everyone' ,Tourism Bay of Plenty general Manager Rhys Arrowsmith has unveiled plans to promote the Bay of Plenty for better tourism.
The campaign will begin with a series of roll-outs by Jason's Media prior to the official launch in spring.
This will include a new 'What's on Bay of Plenty Visitor Guide, The Bay of Plenty conference and events planner and a Route Planner Bay of Plenty.
Tourism Bay of Plenty is set to launch the new campaign in Spring targeting key domestic markets in Waikato and Auckland also working with Tourism New Zealand to spread the word of the new campaign.
Man arrested after armed robbery
A man has been arrested following an armed robbery at Lenz Superette on Cameron Road just before 5pm last night.Inspector Clifford Paxton said that a man with a balaclava across his face entered the store from Cameron Road," The male presented a pistol and obtained cigarettes then attempted to take money but was unsuccessful"
"The occupants have gone to the rear of the shop, then the male has left the shop traveling along Cameron Road"
A 28 year old male is due to appear in Tauranga District Court today on charges of aggravated robbery.
Photos and story - Cameron Avery
Tauranga police dog wins national championship
Both handler and dog have many years of experience behind them but have only been working together as a team for the past twelve months.
Senior Constable Orchard is well aware of the necessity for dog and handler to build unique bond of trust and skill. In 2006 he and his dog Ben were attacked by a man with a claw hammer.
The competition is taken very seriously, patrol dogs are used in extremely dangerous situations and 23 police dogs have died in the course of duty. The skills tested during the competition are potentially lifesaving skills.
Auckland’s Senior Constable William Birrell with his dog Hawk were runner's up and also won Commissioners Challenge Cup for obedience. Constable Stuart Rota and Link from Wellington were third and also won the William Rose Bowl for Criminal Work Disciplines.
This year's top explosive detector dog champion team and winner of the Aviation Security Shield is Aviation Security Officer Harvey Jefferies and ‘Shadow’ from Auckland.
Corrections Officer Barry Nelson and his dog Olesia from Christchurch won the Alan Symes Cup for the narcotic detector dog title, and the 'Customs Cup' for the highest marks in locating white powders.
Deputy Commissioner Mike Bush made a special presentation to the New Zealand Police Dog Section at the prize giving. A commemorative plaque was presented to Inspector Brendon Gibson to recognise the professionalism and devotion to duty when some patrol dogs and personnel were called away from this competition, in 2009, to attend the emergency in Napier arising from the murder of Senior Constable Len Snee.
The top ten police patrol dog teams from around New Zealand competed for national honours at the New Zealand Police Dog Centre at Trentham this week. They were joined by six of the best narcotic detector dog teams from Police, Corrections and Customs and the top five explosive detector dog teams from Police, Aviation Security Service and Customs.
Student gives winnings to charity
Tauranga Riding for the Disabled receives funds from award winning student volunteer
Tauranga Riding for the Disabled has received a $250 donation from the winner of the 2013 TrustPower Tauranga Youth Community Spirit Award.
Thea James from Aquinas College was named as winner of the Award, which recognises secondary school students’ service to the school and the community. The Award is jointly run by TrustPower and the Tauranga City Council and is part of the TrustPower Tauranga Community Awards which were presented last night (Monday 13 May).
For winning the Award Thea received a framed certificate and $250, with an additional $250 being donated to Tauranga Riding for the Disabled.
Kat Macmillan of Tauranga Riding for the Disabled says it is fantastic for the organisation to receive this money from Thea.
“We are so proud of Thea and grateful for all her support and contributions to Tauranga Riding for the Disabled.
We will be purchasing a much needed light weight wheelbarrow with the donation, so that volunteers like Thea can enjoy a superior barrow when they are helping us,” Says Mrs Macmillan.
TrustPower Community Relations Representative Teresa Partridge says the TrustPower Youth Community Spirit Award is a wonderful opportunity to publicly acknowledge the work young people do to enrich their community.
“Often young people receive a lot of negative attention and we forget the tremendous input that they provide to the fabric of our community. Thea is a great example of a student doing just that.
She is an outstanding young woman who truly knows the value of community spirit. She gives so much of her time to her school and even more so to her community.
It is exciting to know that we have these up and coming volunteers who will continue to give back to their communities,” says Mrs Partridge.
Tauranga Men’s Shed takes supreme award
Tauranga Men’s Shed Charitable Trust has won the Supreme Award at the 2013 TrustPower Tauranga Community Awards.
The Awards were announced and presented tonight (Monday 13 May) at a function at ASB Arena, Baypark.
For winning the Supreme Award, Tauranga Men’s Shed received a framed certificate, a trophy and $1,500 prize money. Tauranga Men’s Shed now has the opportunity to represent Tauranga City at the 2013 TrustPower National Community Awards, which are being held in Invercargill and Southland region in March 2014.
In total, TrustPower has given away over $5,000 to various community groups through tonight’s Awards.
TrustPower Community Relations Representative Teresa Partridge says Tauranga has the country’s highest proportion of men aged over 60. Many have moved here in retirement, leaving behind their sheds and home workshops.
“The Men’s Shed is a place where men who are passionate about helping others can come and share knowledge, learn new skills and mentor youth while working together on community projects.
The Shed is a space created by these volunteers at the Historic Village, with rooms for woodworking and carpentry. People in the community have donated tools and machinery for the collective cause.
This project is fantastic for many retired men who have downsized their homes and lost their sheds and garages. At the shed the men can get dirty while working on a range of projects. There is always a continuous demand for the group to work on repairs for the Hospice shops, St Vincent de Paul, Salvation Army, Red Cross, Schools, Churches, community garden groups, hospitals and the list goes on, these volunteers are willing to help out whoever may need a helping hand in the community.
Being open Monday to Friday 9am – 4pm and most Saturdays, the 26 core volunteers of the Tauranga Men’s Shed collectively work over 400 hours a week to provide a place where men of all abilities can get involved. By providing this workplace environment it is giving men a focus and common ground in which to communicate and build their self-worth,” says Mrs Partridge.
The competition for this year’s TrustPower Tauranga Community Awards was tough with 72 groups entered for the Awards.
Other winners at tonight’s TrustPower Tauranga Community Awards were:
Heritage and Environment
Commendation: Community Fruit Tauranga
Runner-Up: Merivale Community Gardens
Winner: Get Growing Community Gardens
Health and Well Being
Commendation: 4Good Charitable Trust
Runner-Up: Tauranga Community Patrol
Winner: Victim Support Tauranga
Arts and Culture
Runner-Up: Tauranga Regional Multicultural Council
Winner: Village Radio
Sport and Leisure
Runner- up: Special Olympics Tauranga
Winner: Tauranga BMX Club
Education and Child/Youth Development
Commendation: Tauranga SeniorNet Club
Runner-Up: Welcome Bay Community Trust
Winner: Otumoetai Rotary Club
Youth Spirit
Winner: Thea James, Aquinas College
Finalist: Carinda Reyneke, Bethlehem College
Finalist: Kristen Vanderschantz, Tauranga Girls’ College
Finalist: Dylan Donne, Tauranga Boys’ College
Property sales strong
The Chief Executive of the Real Estate Institute of New Zealand (REINZ), Helen O’Sullivan, says April was notable for the surge in prices and sales of mid-level homes in many parts of the country which was reflected in a new high for the REINZ Stratified Price Index and records for the index in Wellington and Other South Island districts. "Several regions appear to be benefiting from the tail-wind generated by the strength of house prices in Auckland and Christchurch."
Overall price levels in Auckland and Canterbury are continuing to have a major impact on the national picture, with Auckland recording the second largest increase in median price compared with April last year, and Canterbury the third largest increase in median price. Together, Auckland and Canterbury accounted for 92% of the increase in the national median price over the past 12 months.
"Auckland and Canterbury remain the two regions driving the national median price, a point recognised by the Reserve Bank in its recent monetary policy statement. We also note that the remaining 10 regions accounted for only 8% of the increase in the national median, with four of those regions recording falls."
REINZ data shows there were 7,104 unconditional residential sales in April, an increase of 1,428 sales (+25.2%) compared with the same time last year and a fall of 12.6% compared to March 2013. The increase over March on a seasonally adjusted basis was 0.8%, indicating that sales were slightly stronger than what would normally be expected for this time of the year.
All but one region recorded increases in sales volume compared to April last year, with Manawatu/Wanganui recording an increase of 36.5%, followed by Taranaki with 36.2% and Nelson/Marlborough with 34.2%. Four regions recorded an increase in sales volume in April compared to March, with Central Otago Lakes recording an increase of 11.3%, followed by Manawatu/Wanganui with 2.0% and Southland with an increase of 0.7%.
The national median house price fell by $9,500 (-2.4%), from $400,000 in March, to $390,500 in April, following a new record last month. Compared to April 2012 the national median house price increased by $25,500 (+7.0%), with four of the 12 regions recording a drop in the median price. Compared to April 2012 Taranaki recorded the largest increase in median price, up 15.9%, followed by Auckland with 13.3%, and Canterbury/Westland with 10.0%. Central Otago Lakes recorded the largest fall, down 10.1%, followed by Hawkes Bay, down 6.4% and Nelson/Marlborough, down 2.2%.
The REINZ Stratified Housing Price Index, which adjusts for some of the variations in mix that can impact on the median price, is 9.8% higher than April 2012 and increased 0.8% compared to March. The Auckland Stratified Housing Price Index is up 14.1% compared to April 2012, while the Christchurch Stratified Housing Price Index is up 12.7%. The Wellington Stratified Housing Price Index hit a new record high in April, as did the Other South Island Stratified Housing Price Index
Houses took three days longer to sell in April, compared to March, easing from 31 days in March to 34 days in April. Compared to April 2012, the number of days to sell improved by three days. Eight regions saw an improvement in the number of days to sell between April 2012 and April 2013, with Nelson/Marlborough recording the largest improvement of eight days.
For the month of April, Canterbury/Westland recorded the shortest days to sell at 27 days, followed by Auckland at 30 days, and Wellington and Nelson/Marlborough at 35 days. Central Otago Lakes recorded the longest number of days to sell at 57 days, followed by Northland with 56 days and Manawatu/Wanganui with 49 days. Over the past 10 years the median days to sell for the month of April has averaged 36 days across New Zealand.
Nationally there were 1,368 dwellings sold by auction in April representing 19.3% of all sales - the third highest number of auction sales in a month and an 85.1% increase on the number of dwellings sold by auction in April 2012. Auctions are progressively becoming the favoured sales method in certain centres; for the 12 months to April 2013 the total number of sales by auction reached 13,995 or 18.0% of all sales, compared to 8,108 or 12.3% of all sales for the 12 months to April 2012.
Transactions in Auckland again dominated the auction market in March, representing 76.4% of the national total of auction sales. 37.2% of all dwelling sales in Auckland were by auction in April; this was up strongly from the 23.9% of sales by auction in April 2012. Sales by auction in Waikato/Bay Of Plenty accounted for 7.2% of the national total, Canterbury/Westland accounted for 9.0% of the national total, and all other regions combined accounted for the remaining 7.5% of auction sales in April 2013.
Across New Zealand the total value of residential sales, including sections was $3.50 billion in April, compared to $4.11 billion in March, and $2.57 billion in April 2012. For the 12 months ended April 2013 the total value of residential sales was $36.63 billion.
New bus service for Matapihi
A new Bayhopper service will be operating to and from Matapihi from 14 May 2013.
The service will operate two days a week (Tuesday and Thursday), and run from Tauranga to Matapihi via Bayfair and then back again once in the morning and once in the early afternoon.
The new service was implemented after consideration of a number of requests made by the community.
To begin with the service will operate as a ‘hail and ride’ between Bayfair and Matapihi where the bus will stop and pick up or drop off passengers anywhere on the route that is safe to do so. Passengers are encouraged to contact 0800 4 BAYBUS (0800 4 22928) to request bus stops in specific locations.
Te Puke man injured from motorbike fall
A Te Puke man is recovering in Tauranga hospital after falling from a motorbike yesterday.
The TrustPower TECT Rescue Helicopter was called to a farm on Te Matai rd near Te Puke just after 4pm yesterday afternoon, where a 41 year old male fell from his motorbike and hit a fence.
The male rider received abdominal injuries, and was treated at the scene by St John medical staff before being flown to Tauranga hospital for further treatment, Pilot Todd Dunham said.
Early wake up call for residents
Residents of a quite Welcome Bay street were woken to sounds of a power box exploding just before 6.45am this morning.
When fire crews arrived at the scene the box was well involved in fire, due to the fire being involved with electricity, crews could not apply water to the fire until the power authority shut the power off.
Fishing competition nets $7.500 for local charities
The annual Western Bay Services fishing competition organized by Western Bay Police Officers has raised $7,500 for this year’s charities St John Ambulance, Wish4Fish and Tauranga Coastguard.
Over 200 anglers took part in the competition which began with a briefing on Sunday, 7 April 2013 followed by three days of fishing. Police officers, family members and friends came from all over New Zealand to fish and partake in the comradeship of the competition.
Unlike last year when high winds prevented any fishing outside the harbour the weather was excellent with calm sea and light winds. This allowed for some excellent fishing with over two tonne of fish weighed in.
Rods and reels were awarded to prize winners in the eight categories of fish, as well as dive vouchers being awarded for the crayfish prize winners. Police committee members did well this year with Rob Everitt catching the largest trevally at 3.37kg and Ross Bielby catching the largest snapper at 8.28 kg. The major prize went to the largest kahawai which this year weighed in at 3.47kg and was caught by Sue Burton who had entered the competition for her first time.
Senior Sergeant Ross Bielby says the committee were pleased to be able to raise enough money to make the donations to such worthy charities. The competition has resulted in donations being made to a range of local charities over the past 20 years. He wished to thank all the local sponsors that supported the competition as well as anglers who gave generously to support the running of the competition.
Three serious incidents under investigation
Police in Tauranga are appealing for information from the public following three concerning but unrelated incidents in the area in the last 24 hours.
The first incident occurred in the Kaimai Ranges on SH29 Valley View Road. A man in his 40s from the Western Bay of Plenty area was found unconscious by the road by members of the public. His vehicle was later located in a rural Matamata location by Waikato Police.
The injured man was treated in Tauranga Hospital and later discharged. Police are yet to talk to him in detail to ascertain the circumstances of the incident but are keen to hear from anyone on SH29 between 8pm and 9pm who saw any activity that might be related to this incident.
At approximately 11pm a male pizza delivery worker delivered arrived at Maungatapu Road, Tauranga to deliver a large pizza order. He was assaulted in the street by two Maori men who stole the pizza order. He received minor injuries but did not require any medical attention.
Police are following some positive leads but are still interested in anyone who witnessed the assault and robbery or has information about the movements of a white Nissan Maxima between 10pm and midnight. Police are working on the possibility that the offenders made a false order and then intercepted the delivery.
The final incident happened early this morning at the Kingsview car park, Tauranga. Three men in their late teens and early 20s had just returned to their vehicle when they were approached by a man and a woman who robbed them of their vehicle, assaulting the driver. The three victims managed to immediately alert a nearby police patrol who quickly located the vehicle and signalled for it to stop. The vehicle accelerated away from the police vehicle which continued to follow it. At the 14th Avenue roundabout the vehicle lost control and collided with a pole.
The two occupants in their 30s were taken to Tauranga Hospital. The woman is still being assessed for her injuries. They are not life-threatening. The man has undergone hospital treatment and it is anticipated that he may appear in court later today. Both are expected to face a variety of charges.
Detectives investigating this incident want to hear from anyone who witnessed the robbery between 3am and 3.20am or the subsequent driving manner of a 1990 Toyota Corolla in the CBD and Cameron Road areas.
Area Commander for Western Bay of Plenty Police said Inspector Clifford Paxton, said: "There appears to be no particular reason for this sudden spate of serious incidents but the nature and scale of them is concerning. It is disappointing that a small minority of people have no regard for others and are expressing extreme anti-social behaviour to victimise innocent people. It's an opportune time to remind people to be vigilant when it comes to personal safety and to notify the police of any suspicious activity so that we can work together as a community to prevent this type of offending and keep Tauranga safe."
NZ Music: Fletcher Oxford
Tauranga singer-songwriter and New Zealand's Got Talent 2012 finalist Fletcher Oxford wants to be big and famous. The Tauranga Intermediate 12-year-old released his first single last month and it is now available on iTunes.
The single ‘Everything to Me’ was performed in the finals of New Zealand’s Got Talent in December last year.
Fletcher spoke with Bop Live reporter and photographer Cameron Avery.
Man arrested following P-Lab explosion
Mount Maunganui Police have today arrested a man in connection with the explosion and subsequent fire at an Oceanbeach Road, Mount Maunganui address on 23 April.
The 39-year-old unemployed plasterer will appear in the Tauranga District Court later today.
He faces charges of manufacturing methamphetamine, possession of pre-cursor chemicals and arson.
Detective Sergeant Brazier of the Mount Maunganui CIB says that a second person of interest to the police is still in Waikato Hospital undergoing treatment for severe burns, sustained during the fire at the house.
His current condition is listed as stable.
Photo / Cameron Avery
Green light for more Saudi scholars
Bay of Plenty Polytechnic is delighted to announce it has been approved as one of only four ITPs (Institutes of Technology and Polytechnics) in New Zealand able to accept King Abdullah Scholars from the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The King Abdullah Scholarship Programme (KASP) was launched in 2005 and now invests some NZ$2.8 billion into the programme each year. It has 60,000 students studying in over 30 countries with New Zealand being chosen as one of its top five providers.
The Polytechnic has had an involvement with Saudi students since 2011. This latest collaboration will see dozens more complete qualifications and will bring an added boost for the local economy.
"The KASP scheme has been established and tailored to meet Saudi Arabia’s needs as far as labour, employment and infrastructure are concerned," said Anne Young, Polytechnic International Manager. "Bay of Plenty Polytechnic is very excited to be contributing to meeting these needs and giving students applied skills that they can take back to Saudi Arabia."
All of the KASP students enrolling into the Polytechnic programmes will be utilising the unique pathway opportunities that are possible through the Polytechnic’s relationship with other tertiary providers, including the University of Waikato, AUT and Otago Polytechnic. Pathway opportunities encompass students completing a two year diploma course before pathwaying directly into the third year of a degree.
The Polytechnic has already had a sprinkling of Saudi students studying at the Windermere Campus but formalising the relationship will enable future growth.
Final approval was given by the Saudi Government Ministry of Higher Education and by the Saudi Arabian Cultural Mission earlier this month. The Polytechnic has already started to enrol KASP students into its July intake programmes.
Campaign for hand hygiene in BOP
Director of Nursing at Bay of Plenty District Health Board Julie Robinson says good hand hygiene prevents the transmission of harmful microorganisms between patients or between different parts of a patient’s body.
Ms Robinson said it has been recognised internationally that the ‘5 moments for hand hygiene’ have resulted in less hospital acquired infections. She described the five moments as - before touching a patient, before a procedure, after a procedure or body fluid exposure risk, after touching a patient and after touching a patient’s surroundings.
"We want to get this serious clinical message across to our staff, patients and public in a fun way so have identified staff who practice good hand hygiene practice and have had full-sized photographs of them made.
"Over the next four weeks these cut-outs of cleaners, allied health workers, nurses and doctors will pop-up throughout both Tauranga and Whakatane hospitals."
Ms Robinson said patients also need to feel that they can remind our staff, if they have to, to practice good hand hygiene practice. So cards will be placed in the wards and on bedside tables.
Through 2013 Hand Hygiene NZ (HHNZ) is making education a focus. Clinical Lead Dr Joshua Freeman says an important part of education is not only to explain when hand hygiene is necessary but also why it is important.
"Our aim is to get to the point where every healthcare worker employed in a New Zealand hospital knows exactly when hand hygiene is necessary during patient care to interrupt the transmission of potentially harmful microorganisms," he said.
"Medical staff and senior doctors are a vital ally in the fight to improve hand hygiene behaviour and reduce healthcare associated infections. They are generally regarded as opinion leaders, whose attitudes and beliefs help to shape the attitudes and beliefs of those around them. It is vitally important, therefore, to gain their support whenever possible.
"If our most influential healthcare workers genuinely believe hand hygiene is necessary to protect their patients, then more widespread improvements in practice will inevitably follow," he said.
Tauranga attracts significant business investment
Since launching The Tauranga Business Case campaign, Priority One has attracted a significant number of exciting businesses to the region - including Australian based manufacturer FSP Holdings Pty Ltd.
Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty offer significant opportunities for business growth and continue to be one of New Zealand’s fastest growing economic regions.
"The Tauranga Business Case campaign (www.taurangabusinesscase.co.nz) has really put us on the map - domestically and internationally," says Andrew Coker, Chief Executive of Priority One. "To date we are working with 25 businesses that are making significant investments into the Tauranga and Western Bay of Plenty area.
"This includes manufacturing operations establishing here and others expanding on existing domestic or international business. We are working with businesses across industries such as food processing, ICT, printing and specialised manufacturing.
"At last count these businesses are creating over 200 new jobs for local residents across a range of sectors and skill levels," Andrew added.
One of the international businesses that Priority One has been working closely with to establish operations in Tauranga is Australian-based FSP Holdings Pty Ltd, (www.fspandco.com), manufacturer and major exporter of rotational moulded plastic lockers, cabinets and mining equipment.
Looking to expand their global footprint - which currently includes FSP offices in Australia, China and Chile (and in 2014 North America), and agents/distributors in Kalimantan Indonesia, PNG, Zambia, Mozambique, Belgium and Canada - Kevin Voss, Manager of Business Development at FSP, created comparative business cases for the establishment of a manufacturing plant in Indonesia, Thailand and New Zealand.
Competitive manufacturing costs, accessibility and frequency of import and export services, and the availability of skilled labour made New Zealand the most attractive location of the three.
"Once we settled on New Zealand, we looked at Auckland, Wellington and Tauranga as potential manufacturing sites, as close proximity to a major port was the most important aspect in our decision making," said Kevin. "Discussions with Priority One really confirmed our feeling that Tauranga had more advantages for our business than other locations we were considering and gave us the confidence to move forward quickly".
"The deciding factor for us really was The Port of Tauranga. They offered a frequency of service to and from Australian and international ports that we just couldn’t get from other New Zealand ports. With advice from Priority One and Colliers International, we were able to find a site in Tauranga that suited our purpose in close proximity to the port with all available services, providing savings on transportation and logistics," added Kevin.
FSP plan to be operational within the next four months, and will employ 20 staff in the early stages.
The employment opportunities that come from business growth and attraction in the Tauranga and Western Bay of Plenty are one of the most important aspects of the Tauranga Business Case campaign. Andrew Coker says, "It's about growing jobs now in Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty - a region in recovery from the impacts of Psa in the kiwifruit sector, the global financial crisis, and of course the Rena grounding".
"It's not about robbing Peter to pay Paul and taking businesses out of other regions, including Australia. That's a zero-sum game. It's about informing those people that make decisions as to where they invest and locate their businesses based on the competitive advantages that make their business thrive," says Andrew.
The Tauranga Business Case campaign showcases the advantages of doing business in Tauranga and the Western Bay of Plenty on the back of long-term investments that have been made by local authorities working together with the business community in areas such as roading, broadband, commercial developments and capital investments.
The Tauranga Business Case campaign has also shown people the benefits of living and working in a strong, supportive business and community environment.
Scrub fire in Papamoa (+Video)
Rural Fire Authorities are investigating a scrub fire in Papamoa lastnight.
Fire appliances including a water tanker from Te Puke, Papamoa and Mount Maunganui were called to the blaze on Welcome Bay Road at about 6.45pm lastnight.
Deputy Chief Fire Officer Brent Sanford says the out of control rubbish fire spread up the hill to dry scrub about 30 by 20 meters.
"We had multiple deliveries with about 15 guys working to contain the fire" He says.
Rural Fire are investigating.
Reporter Cameron Avery was at the scene and spoke Fire crews at the scene.
Photos / Cameron Avery.
Seven Tenors set for Tauranga on Saturday
The Seven Irish Tenors originated in Dublin more than a decade ago with the sole intent of showcasing to the world the finest young exponents of Irish singing.
Since then, they have performed at sell-out shows and concert halls throughout the world.
Described by the New York Times as "Simply breathtaking" The Seven Irish Tenors are set to dawn on Tauranga this weekend for a one off show.
Concert promoter, Stewart Macpherson or The Stetson Group, says the group are delighted and looking forward to coming to Tauranga.
"From Rock to Opera, from Pop to Classic Broadway, A great night is installed for Sunday in Tauranga and there is something in the mix for everyone." He says.
The Tauranga Concert will be held at the Holy Trinity Church on Sunday, May 5th at 7.30PM.
Tickets are on sale now at ticketdirect.co.nz
-Lani Hepi
Chiefs team announced to play Rebels
The Chiefs have announced their team to play the Rebels in Melbourne this Friday night at 9.40pm.
Pauliasi Manu and Ben Tameifuna will start as the front row props with Michael Kainga ruled out with a shoulder injury. Sam Cane is in the starting line up, with Matt Vant Leven having his first start this season in the No 8 jersey.
Brendon Leonard starts at halfback while Augustine Pulu moving to the bench. Bundee Aki comes in to replace Richard Kahui who is carrying a shoulder injury while the back trio of Tim Nanai-Williams, Lelia Masaga and Gareth Anscombe remains the same.
Hooker Hika Elliot comes onto the bench and is joined by prop Toby Smith, flanker Tanerau Latimer and winger Patrick Osborne.
The Chiefs next home game will be at Pukekohe when they take on the Western Force on Friday 10 May at ECOLight Stadium. There will be plenty of entertainment for the fans with giveaways, performances from the Chiefs Cheerleaders and the Chiefs Maori Toa group. The players will also sign autographs after the game.
Fans are encouraged to pre-purchase tickets either from the Counties Manukau Rugby Football Union office or online at www.chiefs.co.nz or www.ticketdirect.co.nz. There is no number seating in the Grandstand so it is first in first seated. Prices for Embankment tickets are $6.50 for children under 14 or $22.50 for Adults. Grandstand tickets are one price of $42.00. Kick off for the Chiefs v Western Force match is at 7.35pm 10 May with gates opening at 6.30pm for further information visit www.chiefs.co.nz.
Pauliasi Manu
Mahonri Schwalger
Ben Tameifuna
Craig Clarke
Brodie Retallick
Liam Messam Sam Cane
Matt Vant Leven
Brendon Leonard
Aaron Cruden
Asaeli Tikoirotuma
Bundee Aki
Tim Nanai-Williams
Lelia Masaga
Gareth Anscombe
Hika Elliot
Toby Smith
Michael Fitzgerald
Tanerau Latimer
Augustine Pulu
Robbie Robinson
Patrick Osborne
Photo / Cameron Avery