A Central Hawke’s Bay man has been arrested following a serious assault in Hastings on Saturday.
Hastings Police appealed for witnesses to the alleged assault at Cornwall Park at around 2.15pm Saturday where a male received facial injuries.
Detective Sergeant Darren Pritchard said the 32-year-old man has been charged with injuring with intent to injure and is scheduled to appear in the Hastings District Court on Friday.
Mr Pritchard said Cornwall Park is a popular attraction in Hastings, enjoyed by many in the community, and knows the incident will have unsettled residents.
He said he hopes the quick arrest will bring some peace of mind.
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The National State of Emergency in Hawke’s Bay and Tairawhiti has been extended.
Emergency Management Minister, Kieran McAnulty, yesterday extended the declaration for a further week.
He said thousands of people are still unable to return to their homes due to flood damage, and there is a need to keep co-ordinating the response at a national level.
The Minister also included the Wairarapa into the national transition period, which enables remedial works to be carried out.
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Businesses in the Tararua District affected by Cyclone Gabrielle can now apply for interim support.
The Tararua District Council has been granted $355,000 to help local businesses to get back on their feet.
The Council is one of seven agencies around the country providing business support via the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment.
Tararua Mayor Tracey Collis welcomed the grant, and said businesses in the district have been affected in many ways, with many not able to operate as usual due to a variety of reasons.
She said the main focus of the support will help firms maintain cashflow and position them for a successful recovery.
Businesses, sole traders and self-employed people can find out more and apply through the Tararua District Council website.
Farmers, growers, and whenua Maori owners are able to access a separate support fund via the Ministry for Primary Industries.