‘Tis the season to not get scammed ...
As Christmas gift shopping moves increasingly online, scammers are ramping up their activity across the country.
Dunedin’s Investigation Support Unit is seeing more and more people fall victim to scams and other fraudulent activity, particularly on Facebook Marketplace.
There are a few ways to avoid the scams and keep yourself safe doing online trades this holiday season, says Southern District Service Delivery Manager Senior Sergeant Dalton.
🔒 “A good first step when looking to purchase something on Marketplace is to check when the seller’s Facebook profile was created. If it’s very recent, there is a higher risk that they have just created this account for a one-off fake item.”
🔒 Another important step is to make sure the seller’s profile name and bank account name match up. “We’re seeing a lot of scammers claiming their bank account name is different because it belongs to their partner or family member - that’s a huge red flag."
🔒 “When you’re selling, never trust a screenshot anyone sends you showing that payment has been made. Check your own bank account to make sure a payment has gone through."
🔒 “Quite frankly, it’s best for all parties to agree to pay, or be paid, for items in cash and in-person. Ideally in a public place with CCTV coverage."
🔒 "If you’re buying a car, check Carjam.co.nz to see if it’s stolen or if there’s money owed on it.”
A reminder: Suspicious activity can be reported on 105
Poll: Should we be giving the green light to new mining projects? 💰🌲
The Environmental Protection Authority announced this week that a proposed mine in Central Otago (near Cromwell) is about to enter its fast-track assessment process. A final decision could come within six months, and if it’s approved, construction might start as early as mid-2026.
We want to know: Should mining projects like this move ahead?
Keen to dig deeper? Mike White has the scoop.
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53.1% Yes
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46.9% No
1 SLEEP TO GO HAMILTON
1 more sleep to go!!!!!!!!!! 🥰🥳🥳🥳
Elliott Park, Nawton Hamilton is the place to be tomorrow for the 11th year of the Annual Extravaganza in the Park Christmas Market 2025 We hope you can join us in this magical day.
What to Expect:
Live Music & a wide range of Entertainment
Pony Rides and Facepainting
Kids Market Stall Zone, Interactive stalls
Over 140 other Market Stalls
The Slush Truck
Delicious Food & Local Vendors from Hangi, Maori Kai and much more.....
Christmas Mini Photography Sessions - Capture your family in a photo from a great christmas gift this year.
Dont miss our special appearance from Santa stopping in from the North Pole to celebrate with us.
A great community vibe and day out
Extravaganza in the Park 2025
📍Where: Elliott Park, Hyde Ave Nawton Hamilton
📅 When: Sat 6th Dec 2025
⏰ 9am-2pm
Hospital ED new location of interest in measles spread
Waikato Hospital’s Emergency Department is the latest location of interest for measles.
Two separate days in the last week were listed on Health NZ’s website on Friday morning as a place where someone with measles was known to have visited.
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