An aerial search for signs of kauri die-back disease in the northern Kaimai range and surrounding areas will start this week. “People may notice a fixed wing plane flying in a grid or circular pattern over the Kaimai Mamaku Forest Park and over nearby properties around the Waihi and Katikati areas in the coming weeks,” said Bay of Plenty Regional Council Biosecurity Manager Greg Corbett.

A motorcyclist has been flown to Waikato Hospital with serious injuries after a collision with a car in Waihi on Saturday. “The person on the motorcycle suffered some serious injuries and as a result has been flown to Waikato Hospital,” Simpson said.