SEARCH TEAMS BRAVE SEVERE WINDS AND FLOODING AS 80-YEAR-OLD WOMAN GOES MISSING FROM PŌHARA

Pōhara local resident Natalie missing since Monday 6 July 2026

PŌHARA, GOLDEN BAY — A major search and rescue operation is underway in Golden Bay as police and emergency crews brave treacherous weather to locate 80-year-old local resident Natalie, who vanished from her home early Monday morning. 

The community is on high alert as the search enters its second day under the shadow of a severe orange-level heavy rain warning and damaging gales.

The Disappearance

Natalie, aged 80, was last seen leaving her residence on foot in the coastal settlement of Pōhara at approximately 8:30 am on Monday, 6 July 2026.

Described as wearing a woollen hooded jersey and black sneakers, her sudden disappearance triggered immediate alarm among family and neighbours. Police have also released a photograph showing Natalie smiling with bangs to help the public identify her.

Treacherous Conditions Hamper Search

Land Search and Rescue (LandSAR) personnel, alongside local police, have been deployed across the Pōhara area. However, an atmospheric river currently battering the Tasman District has significantly complicated the effort.

The region is experiencing high winds and heavy downpours, leading to localised flooding and swelling waterways. Police have expressed extreme concern for Natalie's safety given her age and her prolonged exposure to these harsh winter conditions.

Active Search Operations and Targeted Areas

According to local search monitoring and community update feeds, LandSAR teams and emergency personnel are blanketing the immediate Pōhara township with specialised task forces targeting key geographic boundaries:

• Coastal and Water Search Zones: Police and water rescue teams are conducting sweeps of the Pōhara marine area and shoreline. They are heavily focusing on the water parameters around where anyone may have been recreating or boating near 8:00 am on Monday. 

• Local Walkways and Public Grounds: Foot teams are actively scouring local recreational pathways, including the extensive network of walkways that track from the beachfront across to the nearby golf range area.

• Residential Property Sweeps: Local emergency groups are systematically checking residential bush parameters, tree lines, and outbuildings. Homeowners near the Tennyson Street carpark and surrounding residential blocks are being explicitly asked to physically check their own sheds, properties, and dense garden foliage for any sign of the missing woman.

Police Appeal to Bootie's and Locals

The investigation continues to run land and water search operations simultaneously. Search coordinators are specifically appealing to anyone who was out on the water or near the shoreline around 8:00 am on Monday morning to contact authorities immediately. 

Furthermore, police are urging all Pōhara residents to review their private CCTV networks, smart doorbells, and vehicle dash cam footage captured on Monday morning for any signs of a woman matching Natalie's description.

How You Can Help

Authorities are asking the public to remain vigilant but to leave the physical search in hazardous zones to trained personnel.

• Immediate Sightings: Anyone who spots Natalie should call 111 immediately.
• Information & Footage: If you have dash cam footage or information on her whereabouts, please contact the Police.
• File Reference: Quote police event number P066917433.

Pigeon Post News, Richmond, Tasman.

 

NBS Nelson Giants Results from Sunday 28 June

 Auckland Tuatara Edge Out NBS Nelson Giants 88-82 in Trafalgar Centre Thriller

 

The Auckland Tuatara pulled away in a fierce final quarter to defeat the NBS Nelson Giants 88-82  on June 28, 2026 at the Trafalgar Centre. In a high-stakes, back-and-forth Sal's NBL encounter, the Giants showed remarkable energy and physical resilience, even holding a slim lead at various points in the first half. However, Auckland's clinical execution down the stretch proved to be the deciding factor, forcing the home team to look toward resetting for their next home clash. 

 

Nelson's offence was spearheaded by an explosive performance from Shane Gatling, who dropped a game-high 30 points alongside 5 rebounds and 5 assists. Liam Judd provided a massive spark inside, chipping in 19 points, while Eemi Luukkonen battled hard in the paint to secure 14 points and 7 rebounds. Auckland relied heavily on veteran big man Rob Loe, who dominated the glass with a monstrous double-double of 26 points and 14 rebounds. The visitors sealed the victory late in the fourth period by capitalising on critical possessions, narrowly spoiling an impressive home-court effort by the Giants.

Game Statistics

Team	Final Score	Top Scorer	Rebounds	Assists
Auckland Tuatara	88	Rob Loe (26)	Rob Loe (14)	Rob Loe (6)
NBS Nelson Giants	82	Shane Gatling (30)	Eemi Luukkonen (7)	Shane Gatling (5)

Pigeon Post News, Richmond.

Pigeon Post News:

The Sunday Regional and Global BriefRates Backlash Simmers as Tasman Annual Plan is Finalised

Community outcry remains loud across the Tasman District following the council’s formal adoption of a sharp 9.9% average rates increase for the 2026/2027 financial year. Disgruntled residents have taken to public forums to voice anger over the added financial pressure, particularly a mandatory $125 infrastructure recovery charge. Local business associations warn that compounding operational overheads, coupled with ongoing road disruptions, could mirror the recent shock permanent closure of Nelson’s iconic Prego Mediterranean Foods & Comida Cafe.

NBL Game Postponement Puts All Eyes on Tonight's Trafalgar Blockbuster

Nelson sports fans had a quiet Friday night after the NBS Nelson Giants' away fixture against the Wellington Saints was officially postponed. However, local stadium lights will burn bright tonight at 6:00 pm, as the Giants host the formidable Auckland Tuatara at the Trafalgar Centre. The home side expects a packed crowd as they look to build on momentum from their previous 92–79 masterclass over the Manawatū Jets.

Black Caps Scent Victory at Trent Bridge While All Blacks Prep for French Opener

On the international sporting stage, our national teams are dominating the headlines:

• Cricketers in England: The Black Caps have put themselves in a commanding position on day three of the series-deciding third Test at Trent Bridge. After securing an 84-run first-innings lead, an unbeaten 60 from Rachin Ravindra pushed New Zealand’s second-innings total to 120-3, stretching their overall lead to an ominous 204 runs.
• All Blacks Status: The All Blacks are not playing this weekend, but their highly anticipated 2026 international test season officially kicks off next Saturday, 4 July, against France at Christchurch's brand-new One New Zealand Stadium. Meanwhile, New Zealand Rugby and Rugby Australia just announced a historic new tradition locking in Suncorp Stadium to host Anzac Day Bledisloe Cuptests starting in 2027.

International Brief: Deadly Venezuela Earthquakes and Northern Japan Shaken

Overseas, a catastrophic double earthquake in Venezuela has left the country in a state of humanitarian crisis, with the confirmed death toll tragically rising to 235 as crews dig through ruined infrastructure in La Guaira. Meanwhile, a completely separate 6.9 magnitude earthquake rattled the northern coast of Japan. Thankfully, Japanese officials confirmed that no tsunami waves were generated, and no major structural damage or severe injuries were immediately recorded.

Stay warm, enjoy the game at the Trafalgar Centre tonight, and have a safe week ahead.

— From the newsroom at Pigeon Post News, Richmond, Tasman District.

Pigeon Post Sports Desk:

The Ultimate Weekend Regional Wrap-Up

NBS Nelson Giants Lock in Focus for Sunday Night Blockbuster

While basketball fans across the region were left waiting following the official postponement of the Giants’ away game against the Wellington Saints originally scheduled for Friday night, 26 June, all eyes now shift to tomorrow, Sunday 28 June. The NBS Nelson Giants will return to the hardwood at the Trafalgar Centre in Nelson for a massive home clash against the formidable Auckland Tuatara. Tip-off is scheduled for 6:00 pm, with the team eager to carry forward the explosive form that saw Shane Gatling drop a 30-point performance to sink the Manawatū Jets 92–79. Doors open early for the Sky Broadband Rapid League curtain-raiser at 5:00 pm.

Trafalgar Park Semi-Finals Decided Under the LightsThe top-tier Men's Division 1 Tasman Trophy competition delivered high-stakes, uncompromising playoff rugby as the semi-finals played out at Trafalgar Park in Nelson:

• Nelson vs. Waimea Old Boys: The Nelson club battled Richmond's primary powerhouse, Waimea Old Boys, under the Friday night lights in a gruelling, physical match that captivated traveling Waimea fans. Nelson won the thrilling Tasman Trophy semi-final match against Waimea Old Boys with a final score of 50–48. The high-stakes play-off took place on Friday, June 26, 2026, at Trafalgar Park. Nelson secured their spot in the grand final after sealing the victory with a dramatic last-minute try.

 Key Match Plays

• Early Winger Double-Injury: Just five minutes into the game, Nelson lost both starting wingers, Adam Schwass and Solo Gukirewa, forcing immediate tactical changes that ultimately led to Malaulau's match-defining shift to the wing.The Last-Minute Winner: After a relentless back-and-forth battle that saw the lead swing multiple times, Nelson sealed the 50–48 victory with a dramatic, clutch try in the very last minute of regular play to punch their ticket to the grand final. 

  • Marist vs. Central (Blenheim): Regular-season table-toppers Marist took on the dangerous Central squad in the late-night slot to lock in the other half of the championship bracket. Marist decisively won the second semi-final against Central (Blenheim) with a final score of 36–7 The Grand Final: The surviving teams from these two brutal encounters have officially booked their spots in the Tasman Trophy Grand Final, which is set to kick off next Friday, 3 July at 7:30 pm.

Grassroots Drama Sweeps Division 2 Elimination Rounds Sudden-death knockouts across the Car Company Nelson Bays Division 2 brought a massive wave of pride and heartbreak to local community grounds on Saturday:

• Brightwater (Centennial Park): Local Wanderers Division 2 supporters packed the boundary lines at the Brightwater Domain, but a highly disciplined Huia squad from Motueka executed perfectly under pressure to eliminate the hosts in a tight 27–23 nail-biter.

• Takaka (The Battle of the Bay): The rural landscape of Golden Bay witnessed intense derby action at the Takaka Rugby Football Club. A relentless, come-from-behind second-half scoring surge by visitors Collingwood broke home hearts, stealing a narrow victory from Takaka right at the death. The "Battle of the Bay" local derby between Takaka and Collingwood ended in a 24–5 victory for Collingwood. 

Wakefield (Quiet Fields): 

• No matches were scheduled for the Wakefield pitches, leaving the local sports community to travel out to support the neighbouring playoff battles in Brightwater.

Brightwater:

The playoff battle in Brightwater was a Nelson Bays Division 2 Top 6 Elimination Final between Wanderers Div 2 and Huia Div 2. 

The high-stakes knockout match took place at the Brightwater Domain on Friday, June 26, 2026, featuring the 3rd-seeded Wanderers hosting the 6th-seeded Huia. In a hard-fought upset, Huia won the match with a final score of 27–23, ending the Wanderers' season and advancing Huia further into the playoff bracket. 

RICHMOND - Waimea Women 

• Richmond (Jubilee Park): The match scheduled at Jubilee Park in Richmond on Friday, June 26, 2026, between Waimea Women and Kahurangi Women was unplayed because Kahurangi defaulted the game. As a result, Waimea Women were awarded the victory via forfeit. 

Netball Action Sparks at Saxton Field and Football Goals Flow in MotuekaBeyond the rugby lines, the district's winter sports codes delivered stellar performances across Saturday:

• Saxton Field Netball: Competitive winter rounds lit up the Nelson Netball Centre. In Collegiate Grade action, Nayland College Senior Maroon ground out a gritty 7–4 win over 9B Nayland College. Concurrently, Rai Valley Area School Gold put on a clinical display to defeat the Murchison Netball Club 17–8.
• Motueka Football Showcase: On the football pitch, Flooring Xtra Motueka claimed an action-packed 6–3 victory over the Suburbs Sicarios. Clinical first-half goals from Ryan and Jimmy were brilliantly backed up by a quick-fire double from Jackson, before a late strike from Jonty firmly iced all 3 competition points.

Keep active, back your neighbourhood clubs, and have an exceptional weekend.

— From the sports desk at Pigeon Post News, Richmond, Tasman District.

PIGEON POST RICHMOND - News in Brief

Lower Queen St., Richmond

News in Brief

Tasman Ratepayers Face 9.9% Rates Hike

Ratepayers in the Tasman District Council area face a substantial 9.9% average rates increase after elected officials finalised the region's complex 2026/2027 Annual Plan. Mayor Tim King noted that rising infrastructure costs, insurance, and the lingering financial impacts of past severe weather events left the council with few popular financial levers to pull. By contrast, neighbouring Nelson City Council adopted a much smaller 4.7% increase.

Road Closures and Costs Force Closure of Iconic Nelson Business

After 19 years of operations, local culinary staple Prego Mediterranean Foods & Comida Cafe has announced it is shutting its doors permanently. The owners cited a devastating combination of ongoing road closures from major CBD works and relentlessly rising operational costs. The community has expressed deep sadness over losing a foundational piece of the central city's hospitality scene.

Tasman Mako Leader David Havili Announces Move to Japan

In local rugby news, Tasman Mako leader and Crusaders captain David Havili has confirmed a future move to Japan. The versatile All Blacks back intends to finish out his local commitments and return to provincial colours for Tasman before heading overseas later this year to begin his new international club chapter.

Upcoming NBS Nelson Giants Basketball Fixtures

Local basketball fans have a busy stretch ahead as the NBS Nelson Giants continue their 2026 Sal's NBL campaign. Fans can secure tickets through Giants Flicket for these upcoming rounds:

Wellington Saints (Away): Friday, 26 June, 2:30 pm at TSB Arena

Auckland Tuatara (Home): Sunday, 28 June, 6:00 pm at Trafalgar Centre

Franklin Bulls (Home): Sunday, 5 July, 3:00 pm at Trafalgar Centre

Southland Sharks (Away): Saturday, 11 July at ILT Stadium Southland

Coalition Tensions Rise Over Proposed India Free Trade Agreement

On the national stage, political sparks are flying between National and New Zealand First over confidential immigration documents linked to a proposed free trade agreement with India. NZ First leader Winston Peters publicly targeted National in Parliament, alleging that proposed immigration policy concessions within the draft deal are discriminatory toward Indian nationals.

Search for Survivors Intensifies After Devastating Venezuela Earthquakes

Overseas, a catastrophic double earthquake in Venezuela has left the nation reeling, with the confirmed death toll climbing to 235 as search and rescue teams frantically comb through the rubble. Massive destruction is reported across several regional towns and the port city of La Guaira. Global seismic experts confirm that while three major international quakes occurred within a short window, they are not structurally connected.

Pigeon Post News, Richmond.

Winter Blast Eases for Tasman, But Extreme Caution Urged on Alpine Passes This Weekend

Pigeon Post News, Richmond, Tasman, NZ

Caution Urged on Alpine Passes This Weekend

A settled, fine weekend is on the horizon for the Tasman District as a disruptive winter weather system begins to clear. However, motorists planning to travel between the islands or through the upper South Island must prepare for severe alpine driving conditions. Heavy overnight frosts, lingering road grit, and black ice mean our mountain passes will require maximum vigilance.

Richmond & Tasman Weather: A Welcome, Sunny Respite

Following a week of intense southerlies and volatile winter showers, MetService New Zealand confirms that high pressure is moving in to bring a clear, mostly sunny weekend across Richmond and the broader Tasman area.

• Saturday, 27 June: Any early residual showers will quickly clear in the morning to make way for a beautiful, fine day. Winds will remain light with a pleasant afternoon high of 16°C, though overnight temperatures will quickly plummet to a chilly 6°C.
• Sunday, 28 June: The clear skies continue with a crisp, fully fine day ahead. Southerly breezes are forecast to die out completely by morning. Expect a daytime high of 14°C and a frosty overnight low dropping to just 4°C.

Driving SH60 Richmond to Tākaka 

State Highway 60 between Richmond and Tākaka is currently open, but drivers must exercise high caution over the Tākaka Hill summit due to ice, heavy winter frosts, and historical slip vulnerabilities.

Route Overview & Current Conditions SH60

• Richmond to Riwaka: Traffic is flowing smoothly. Watch for typical winter dampness and surface moisture in shaded spots around Motueka. 
• Tākaka Hill Summit (SH60): Fully open 24/7, but standard alpine winter hazards apply. Due to the recent cold snap, the summit is prone to black ice and heavy frosts, particularly on the southern (Riwaka) face and heavily shaded corners. 
• Slump Sites & Maintenance: The route remains structurally vulnerable at historical slip points like Drummond’s Corner. Be prepared for localised temporary speed limits or sections with a narrower road width.

Weekend Weather for the Drive SH60

The weather over the hill will clear up beautifully, but temperatures will be very low:

• Saturday: Residual morning dampness will clear rapidly into a fine, crisp afternoon. Light winds mean excellent visibility.
• Sunday: Clear, fine, and sunny. However, an overnight drop to near-freezing will mean severe morning frost and refreezing moisture on the road surface.

Alpine Passes: High-Country Hazards and Road Status

While coastal regions enjoy the sunshine, the upper South Island alpine corridors are still recovering from major snowfall. While key routes have successfully reopened after closures earlier today, extreme care is paramount.

Arthur's Pass (SH73)

Mountain pass

West Coast Region

OPEN WITH CAUTION. The highway between Springfield and Arthur's Pass Village was entirely blocked on Friday morning due to heavy snow, ice, and multiple stranded vehicles. NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) contractors have cleared the road, but freezing high-country temperatures mean that melting snow will refreeze into treacherous black ice overnight.

Lewis Pass (SH7)

Mountain pass

Lewis Pass

OPEN. This northern pass received up to 5cm of snow over the summit, with areas further east recording up to 10cm. While the weather is clearing, heavy shading means ice and grit remain a hazard across the highway.

Rahu Saddle (SH7)

Mountain pass

Rahu Saddle

OPEN. No active closures are in place, but winter driving area warnings span the entire spine of the Alps.

Pigeon Post Essential Travel Tips

If you must head out across the passes this weekend, NZTA officials advise packing a winter safety kit containing warm layers, food, and fresh water. Always ensure your vehicle has a healthy amount of fuel or battery range in the event of unexpected travel diversions.

Before you turn the key, make sure to double-check the live, up-to-the-minute highway statuses via the interactive NZTA Journey Planner.

Stay warm, drive to the winter conditions, and enjoy the beautiful crisp sunshine in our backyard this weekend!

Pigeon Post News, Richmond - 26 June 2026