Bouncy-slide probe continues
A Government health and safety investigation into how an inflatable bouncy slide blew away during a staff Christmas party in Whangarei, leaving four young children injured, is still ongoing.
Safety investigators from the Ministry of Business, Innovation and Employment had started an inquiry into the incident, which happened at Whangarei's Heritage Park in Maunu on November 17, with a spokesman saying yesterday the investigation was continuing.
"Depending on the nature and complexity of the incident, an investigation can take up to six months to complete and, as is normal procedure with all investigations, the ministry will be making no further comment while the investigation is undertaken," the spokesman said.
ASB Bank staff from throughout Northland had gathered at the park for the bank's annual children's Christmas party when the incident happened.
Northland St John Ambulance boss Tony Devanney said at the time that a wind gust was believed to have picked up the slide and dragged it about 20 metres. Three children were on it and the equipment hit another child as it was blown along. Mr Devanney said four were taken to hospital.
The Northern Advocate understands that twin 6-year-old boys had three broken arms between them, while an 8-year-old girl was concussed.
The slide was hired from Trailblazers Northland, which specialises in inflatable play structures.
ASB Bank general manager of public and external relations Christian May said a strong gust appeared to have pulled the slide's tethers out of the ground and tipped it over.
