A downed pylon causes widespread power outages across Northland, NZ edges out of recession and a Kapiti Coast teacher becomes NZ's Olympic mascot.
1 Downed pylon causes widespread power outages across Northland
A tower came down unexpectedly near Glorit, between Wellsford and Kaukapakapa around 11am this morning, causing power outages across Northland, the Far North, and northern areas of Auckland.
Whangārei District Council has urged residents to conserve water, warning that "some areas may run out completely" due to the network running at "reduced capacity".
Northland police warned the community to be patient on the roads and take care at intersections. "Police are currently managing traffic on the main roads, and at intersections where traffic lights [are out]," a spokesperson said.
2 NZ edges out of recession as GDP rises by 0.2%
The increase follows two decreases in the December and September 2023 quarters.
National accounts industry and production senior manager Ruvani Ratnayake said across the quarter, there was a “range of results at an industry level”, with eight out of 16 industries rising.
The rises were seen in rental, hiring, and real estate services (up 0.9%), and electricity generation drove a 2.9% increase across electricity, gas, water, and waste services.
3 GNS monitoring quake swarm after 79 hit near Wairoa in 4 days
Since June 17, at least 79 earthquakes have been reported by GNS, occurring 25km northeast of Wairoa. The largest earthquake of this swarm was a 4.5 magnitude which struck at 1.49am on Wednesday.
Seismic duty officer Elisabetta D'Anastasio told 1News that earthquake swarms "are not uncommon" in this area.
"They happen in all regions of New Zealand and throughout the world."
4 Police warn Chinese community after millions taken in investment scam
Detective Senior Sergeant Rob Hunkin said the scammers were making initial contact through WeChat or Telegram asking users to "invest" in an Australian investment platform.
"Our advice to anyone is to be extremely cautious if you are ever approached about making an investment into a project or scheme."
He said it was "essential" to ensure the company was genuine before handing over any money.
5 Handwritten letter released, claimed to be from fugitive Marakopa father Tom Phillips
Ember, 8, Maverick, 9, and Jayda, 11, have been missing since December 2021 after they were taken by their father Tom Phillips, who does not have legal custody of the children.
Police ramped up search efforts in Western Waikato within Marokopa and the surrounding areas and said Phillips is "likely" being helped by others to remain hidden.
The handwritten letter, which was not dated nor signed, described the writer's love for the children's mother, apologised to her and said he has "a good heart and means well". "I know if I ever give up trying to make things right I will regret it forever," the letter said.
ONE OLYMPIC DREAM
Teacher Kate Thompson has been selected to join the New Zealand Olympic Team in Paris — as their mascot "Goldie" the kiwi.
Thompson said she only entered the competition the day before entries closed on May 31.
"I get to go to Paris with one of my really good friends and I get to be the hype woman for New Zealand — it's the dream," Thompson told Breakfast this morning.
LORD OF THE FRIES GOES INTO LIQUIDATION
Outlets had previously closed at Snickel Lane and Karangahape Rd in Central Auckland, Cuba St in Wellington, and in Hamilton East and Queenstown.
At its height the brand had seven stores across New Zealand. Chartered accountant Victoria Toon has been appointed liquidator and creditors have until July 12 to prove debts or claims.
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