Central Otago District newsletter
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Be aware, pesky phone scammers’ latest move may be posing as Police officers seeking your financial details.
New Zealand Police are aware of reports emerging this month where Kiwis have been contacted on the phone by someone claiming to be an officer. The officer will claim to be from a … View moreBe aware, pesky phone scammers’ latest move may be posing as Police officers seeking your financial details.
New Zealand Police are aware of reports emerging this month where Kiwis have been contacted on the phone by someone claiming to be an officer. The officer will claim to be from a particular department, tell you that you have been a victim of fraud or scam, and begin to try and obtain further financial information from you. This is a scam.
Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Bolton, from Auckland City’s Financial Crime Unit, says there have been at least a dozen reports made to Police, and these scam calls are largely being made to landlines. “While Police do not have accurate numbers of how many of these scam calls have been received, it is important that the public are aware,” he says. “Police will make some enquiries into these calls, but our experience has shown that often phone-based scammers will be operating from overseas. “We appreciate the vigilance of those who have contact Police so far, as this will help us to make others in the community aware.”
Unfortunately, scams can take many different forms and target victims on different platforms, Detective Senior Sergeant Bolton says. “Scammers are opportunistic and thrive off your trust and good-will. If you receive a call of this nature, do not hand over any personal details.”
New Zealand Police will never contact people seeking their banking details, card numbers, pin numbers or passwords. There are instances where legitimate Police officers will contact you as part of their duties. Police ask that the public remain vigilant.
𝗥𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿:
➡️Police will never ask for details about your bank cards, pin numbers or passwords over the phone.
➡️Trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, or is too good to be true, it probably is.
➡️If you are uncertain, ask for the officer’s details. Hang up, contact 105 and request the officer to contact you.
➡️Police aren’t in the business of offering prize money.
If you are in the unfortunate position of being a victim of a scam, please report the matter to Police.
Take the chance to upskill yourself on scam awareness, check for further information on the NetSafe website.
𝗘𝗺𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝘀𝗰𝗮𝗺:
Police are also aware of an email scam that has re-emerged, that claims to be authorities from Police and other justice sector partners. This scam has been subject of previous advisories. We continue to advise people to be extremely cautious when receiving unsolicited emails. Do not reply an the email of this nature under any circumstances.
The Press and The Post (Stuff) are collecting data on the cost of early childhood education in New Zealand. The data will be anonymised (unless you have opted-in to being contacted for a potential interview, via the last question).
If you have children in early childhood education, please help … View moreThe Press and The Post (Stuff) are collecting data on the cost of early childhood education in New Zealand. The data will be anonymised (unless you have opted-in to being contacted for a potential interview, via the last question).
If you have children in early childhood education, please help us out by completing a brief survey. Click here to find the survey. The results will be reported on thepress.co.nz and thepost.co.nz at a later date.
Attention NZ Streamers! As inflation takes its toll, major streaming services in NZ are increasing their prices.
Sitting back and watching your favourite movies will likely cost more money. So check them out! But don't worry, we've got tips to help you save without missing out on your… View moreAttention NZ Streamers! As inflation takes its toll, major streaming services in NZ are increasing their prices.
Sitting back and watching your favourite movies will likely cost more money. So check them out! But don't worry, we've got tips to help you save without missing out on your favourite shows! Stay tuned!
Canadian clinical neuroscientist and researcher Professor Vladimir Hachinski has been announced the winner of the 2024 Ryman Prize - an annual $250,000 grant for the world’s best discovery, development, advancement or achievement that enhances the quality of life for older people.
The prize … View moreCanadian clinical neuroscientist and researcher Professor Vladimir Hachinski has been announced the winner of the 2024 Ryman Prize - an annual $250,000 grant for the world’s best discovery, development, advancement or achievement that enhances the quality of life for older people.
The prize was presented by Prime Minister Christopher Luxon at a ceremony at Logan Campbell Village in Auckland today, celebrating the major contribution Professor Hachinski has made to the diagnosis, treatment, prevention, and the links between ‘the terrible three’ - stroke, dementia and coronary heart disease.
Click read more for the full article.
Why adopt from SPCA? Because all our animals come desexed, microchipped, vaccinated, health checked, and prepared for their life as a pet by our staff and foster families.
With expert advice, 3 months free pet insurance, and Purina discount vouchers included, our adoptions are not only … View moreWhy adopt from SPCA? Because all our animals come desexed, microchipped, vaccinated, health checked, and prepared for their life as a pet by our staff and foster families.
With expert advice, 3 months free pet insurance, and Purina discount vouchers included, our adoptions are not only affordable but also provide everything your new friend needs to thrive. And between 13-28 April only, our adoption fees are 25% off!
Visit one of our Centres on our National Adoption Open Day on Saturday, 13 April, or apply online to arrange a private meet-and-greet. Help us Clear the Shelters these school holidays!
Why adopt from SPCA? Because all our animals come desexed, microchipped, vaccinated, health checked, and prepared for their life as a pet by our staff and foster families.
With expert advice, 3 months free pet insurance, and Purina discount vouchers included, our adoptions are not only … View moreWhy adopt from SPCA? Because all our animals come desexed, microchipped, vaccinated, health checked, and prepared for their life as a pet by our staff and foster families.
With expert advice, 3 months free pet insurance, and Purina discount vouchers included, our adoptions are not only affordable but also provide everything your new friend needs to thrive. And between 13-28 April only, our adoption fees are 25% off!
Visit one of our Centres on our National Adoption Open Day on Saturday, 13 April, or apply online to arrange a private meet-and-greet. Help us Clear the Shelters these school holidays!
Get the best protection you can before winter. The flu vaccine is free if you’re over 65. It’s also free for pregnant people and for many others with certain underlying health conditions, including diabetes, heart and lung diseases, and mental health conditions.
To book your flu vaccine … View moreGet the best protection you can before winter. The flu vaccine is free if you’re over 65. It’s also free for pregnant people and for many others with certain underlying health conditions, including diabetes, heart and lung diseases, and mental health conditions.
To book your flu vaccine contact your doctor, pharmacy or healthcare provider, or visit
Don’t miss out! For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in stunning Taupō, worth just over $1 million.
Featuring three bedrooms, two bathrooms and an open-plan kitchen, living and dining area, this home is waiting to be loved by its … View moreDon’t miss out! For only $15 a ticket, you could be in to win this brand-new, fully furnished Jennian home located in stunning Taupō, worth just over $1 million.
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By reporter Debbie Jamieson:
Queenstown’s newest road project has received a huge Government funding boost, but the transport minister is warning he will not tolerate another budget blow out.
Minister Simeon Brown was in Queenstown to turn the first sod on a four-year project that includes … View moreBy reporter Debbie Jamieson:
Queenstown’s newest road project has received a huge Government funding boost, but the transport minister is warning he will not tolerate another budget blow out.
Minister Simeon Brown was in Queenstown to turn the first sod on a four-year project that includes installation of 18 new sets of traffic lights, including at one of the South Island’s busiest intersections.
He announced a new Government budget of $250 million for the project, more than double the $113m originally set aside.
It follows news of a $40m budget blow out on an $128m arterial road to bypass central Queenstown, which started in 2021 and due to be completed later this year.
Both projects were being run by the the Kā Huanui a Tāhuna (Whakatipu Transport Programme Alliance), which included representatives from the Queenstown Lakes District Council, Waka Kotahi NZTA, Beca, Downer, Fulton Hogan and engineers WSP.
Brown said the Frankton Rd project would deliver “significant benefits” in resolving a “pinch point”, unlocking opportunities for more housing and supporting tourism.
“We expect that this will be delivered on time and within budget. We are not tolerating budget blow outs,” he said.
Much of the work was focused on pedestrian and public transport improvements, he said
“But ultimately this intersection carries 44,000 vehicles a day, so the prize here is making sure we can move that vehicle traffic more efficiently.”
The “BP roundabout” intersection sat at the heart of the project and was one of the busiest intersections in the South Island.
The roundabout would be replaced by traffic lights, the nearby bus hub would be extended, new bus lanes would be built, and there would be more footpaths, underground infrastructure work and another roundabout at the intersection of SH6 and Howards Dr.
The new sets of traffic lights would be installed at several intersections along Frankton Rd.
Brown said the work would boost economic growth, reduce congestion, and create a safer and more reliable transport network.
“With tourism returning to pre-Covid restriction levels, and continued growth in and around Queenstown, upgrades to this critical intersection will ensure local commuters and visitors can get to where they are going, quickly and safely.
“These upgrades will provide families and children who go to school in Queenstown with more travel choices by delivering an expanded bus hub, as well as allowing more room for ski bus operators in the winter,” he said.
Queenstown Lakes mayor Glyn Lewers warned there would be significant disruption as the work progressed.
“I acknowledge there’s been ongoing local frustration about road works. We’ve all seen the memes and heard the commentary about road cones.
“I ask that we all just keep cool, plan ahead and keep an eye on the prize.
“These improvements will take time but they will make this little alpine village and this this district a hell of a lot better,” he said.
Ultimately, workers would be able to move about more freely and buses would get a “fairer crack at sticking to their schedules”, he said.
Construction manager Mark Townsley said there would be little disruption for the first 18 months of the project, which included removing trees, installing a new stormwater pipe and relocating utility services on golf course land.
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The long weekend is the perfect time to make your place safer for an earthquake with these steps:
• Find out where you can turn off your water and gas mains
• Check your chimney for any signs of wear and tear, or damage
• Check your home's foundations are secured
• Move heavy … View moreThe long weekend is the perfect time to make your place safer for an earthquake with these steps:
• Find out where you can turn off your water and gas mains
• Check your chimney for any signs of wear and tear, or damage
• Check your home's foundations are secured
• Move heavy items that are up high to safer, lower down locations.
• Secure tall and heavy furniture and appliances
These simple actions can keep your whānau safer in case of a big shake, so tick them off and make the most of your break.
Seven-term Mayor of Masterton, Bob Francis CNZM QSO MBE JP, has been named the 2024 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealander of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
Affectionately dubbed ‘Mr Wairarapa’, Bob has served his community in multiple areas, including health services, commercial … View moreSeven-term Mayor of Masterton, Bob Francis CNZM QSO MBE JP, has been named the 2024 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealander of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
Affectionately dubbed ‘Mr Wairarapa’, Bob has served his community in multiple areas, including health services, commercial development, the arts, aviation, homelessness, conservation and sports.
Bob’s award signifies the sixth time Ryman Healthcare has supported this category of the Kiwibank New Zealander of the Year Awards, which provides a fantastic opportunity to celebrate Kiwi seniors who continue to make positive contributions towards the future of Aotearoa.
Click read more for the full article.
Dive into Easter streaming! Explore our top picks for movies and TV shows to enjoy this long weekend!
Plus, discover how to watch them for FREE. Don't miss out – COMPARE broadband plans with Broadband Compare and start saving today!
The long weekend is the perfect time to make your place safer for an earthquake with these steps:
• Find out where you can turn off your water and gas mains
• Check your chimney for any signs of wear and tear, or damage
• Check your home's foundations are secured
• Move heavy … View moreThe long weekend is the perfect time to make your place safer for an earthquake with these steps:
• Find out where you can turn off your water and gas mains
• Check your chimney for any signs of wear and tear, or damage
• Check your home's foundations are secured
• Move heavy items that are up high to safer, lower down locations.
• Secure tall and heavy furniture and appliances
These simple actions can keep your whānau safer in case of a big shake, so tick them off and make the most of your break.
About 40% of the 6.5 million tyres Kiwis use every year are recycled, repurposed, or used as tyre-derived fuel. But the rest end up in landfills, stockpiled or dumped.
The good news is now there’s an easy solution to all that tyre waste. It’s called Tyrewise and is New Zealand’s first … View moreAbout 40% of the 6.5 million tyres Kiwis use every year are recycled, repurposed, or used as tyre-derived fuel. But the rest end up in landfills, stockpiled or dumped.
The good news is now there’s an easy solution to all that tyre waste. It’s called Tyrewise and is New Zealand’s first national tyre recycling scheme.
Tyrewise ensures that tyres in Aotearoa New Zealand are recycled or repurposed properly, saving millions from going to the landfill.
Find out more about the scheme online.
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