A Tauranga man has been charged after an alleged vandalism spree targeting political hoardings, with Police warning potential copycats to think again.

The first hoardings were targeted on Parton Road in Papamoa about 6.30am on 10 September. 

All up, about 30 hoardings of various kinds were damaged in a two-hour period across Papamoa, says Senior Sergeant Shannon Clifford, Area Manager – Response.  

“The damage in some cases is significant and unfortunately, that’s an unnecessary cost for the people who own them. 

Please attribute to Senior Sergeant Dave Marshall:

Police can confirm one person has died in a house fire on Matakana Island this morning. 

Emergency services were called to the fire, on Paama Court, about 4.10am.

Police and Fire and Emergency New Zealand attended the scene, with an investigation now under way to establish the cause.

At this stage we can advise that one person was located deceased inside the property.

One person was also treated for burns. 

Police will remain on scene through the day.

ENDS