9 Feb 2012

Morning Report: local papers

7:05 am on 9 February 2012

Thursday's headlines: Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee expresses growing frustration over Christchurch City Council; gold investors learn they won't get their money back; KO by SBW in first round.

NZ Herald

The New Zealand Herald outlines the plight of a Christchurch family who have more than $340,000 invested with a gold bullion trader. They have now been told they won't be getting their money back.

The Serious Fraud Office says it's looking into the Bullion Buyer company as a matter of priority.

The rest of the front page is taken up with a large photo of Sonny Bill Williams kissing girlfriend Jaimie Ridge after knocking out Clarence Tillman in the first round of their boxing bout on Wednesday night.

Waikato Times

The Waikato Times leads with that story, headlined 'Hammered in Hamilton'.

The paper say it took 2 minutes and 59 seconds for Williams to defeat the older, heavier fighter.

The only other story on the front page says police are very seriously considering a permanent crackdown on speeding by slashing the 10%window they currently allow.

Dominion Post

The Dominion Post says a 4km tolerance being introduced this month may become a long term measure.

Earthquake Recovery Minister Gerry Brownlee says calling the Christchurch Mayor Bob Parker a clown was over the top, but reflects his growing frustration over earthquake issues.

The Press

The Press also covers the Gerry Brownlee remarks. Mr Brownlee went on to criticise councillors for their reluctance to consider a rates rise or asset sales, saying every single option should be considered to fund the city's recovery.

From the Pike River Inquiry, a methane outburst ignited by an electrical spark has been revealed as the probable cause of the coalmine explosion, which killed 29 men.

And the Coast to Coast's first champion, Joe Sherriff, 60, from Invercargill, is aiming to better his original time when he competes in the Longest Day this week - nearly 30 years after his first triumph.

ODT

The Otago Daily Times says international tourists could be charged for access to national parks.

Dunedin City Council, police and the University of Otago have student street parties in their sights as the council implements an extended liquor ban.

And the paper meets the oldest competitor at the Masters Games: golfer Ivan Elder, 93, scored a net 72 in his round at St Clair on Wednesday.