Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency is encouraging motorists to plan ahead and be patient to ensure safe, enjoyable journeys this Auckland Anniversary weekend.

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency advises State Highway 2 will remain closed at Ngatea through the Auckland Anniversary holiday long weekend.

This Saturday, Family Day Races at the Wellington Racing Club will see anti-horse racing protesters demonstrating outside.

One person has died following a fleeing driver incident at Rotokawa, near Taupō, early this morning.

The incident took place after a vehicle driving dangerously near a fatal crash scene failed to stop for Police.

Communities all around New Zealand are preparing for the Global Day of Protest Against 5G on Saturday 25 January 2020. From a lively educational market stall in Kaitaia to a solid protest in Invercargill, people all over the country will be mobilising against the imposition of 5G networks.

Ambulance and Police were called to the south end of St Clair Beach in Dunedin around 4:30pm today to reports of a male in trouble in the water.

A search is underway for the male, assisted by surf lifesaving.

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency advises that State Highway 1 at Cape Reinga has reopened to traffic.

The road was closed Wednesday night from the Cape Reinga carpark to Tapotupotu Road because of a large scrub fire. It remained closed throughout the day.

Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency advises State Highway 2 will remain closed at Ngatea through the Auckland Anniversary holiday long weekend.

This warning affects people in the following local government areas:

TAUPO, HASTINGS and WAIROA.

At 05:30 pm, MetService weather radar detected severe thunderstorms near TE HAROTO, TARAWERA, POHOKURA and THE AHIMANAWA RANGE.

Please attribute to Detective Inspector Rob Jones:

Eastern Police continue to appeal for information from the public about any suspicious or concerning activity, particularly in relation to gang-related issues.