Hawke’s Bay: Copper stolen from rail crossings
Hawke’s Bay Police are appealing to the public to report any suspicious activity around railway crossings and bridges in their community, after hundreds of metres of copper was stolen in just a week.
In the week beginning 23 June, more than 750 metres of copper cable was stolen from the railway bridge north of Clive, along with four level crossing bells being stolen from railway crossings between 12 April and 12 May.
"It is extremely concerning and a huge public safety risk. Railway core cables are responsible for transmitting power and signals to trains, which is crucial to keeping the rail systems operating safely and efficiently.
Crossing bells are an essential part of public safety and play a huge role in warning people that a train is approaching. The removal of these bells has the potential to cause fatal accidents,” says Senior Constable Potaka.
Police take public safety very seriously and would like to remind offenders that not only are you putting your community at risk when stealing these essential railway safety tools, but cutting any electrical wires comes with risk – including to yourself.
Police are also reminding scrap metal yards that we will be taking a hard line with anyone found to be receiving the bells or other stolen copper or metal.
If anyone sees someone acting suspiciously around railways, they are asked to ring 111 immediately if it is happening now, or 105 if it is after the fact.
We also encourage anyone who sees anything at railway crossings and bridges that they are concerned about, such as wires that have been noticeably cut or bells missing, to contact Police immediately.
Information can also be provided anonymously via Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
Keep safe and happy in Hawke’s Bay these holidays
As holiday-makers enjoy their time in the sunny Hawke’s Bay, Police have advice for both locals and visitors about how to ensure we head into 2026 on a high note.
Inspector Lincoln Sycamore, Hawke’s Bay Area Commander, says he wants everyone to have a safe and enjoyable New Year in our region.
“We welcome you if you’re in Hawke’s Bay to enjoy the weather, food, and everything else our area has to offer. Respect each other, don’t overindulge and make good decisions. Don’t be ‘that person’ who ruins it for everyone.”
🔵 Staff deployed across Hawke’s Bay, to beaches, events and more
“Keep yourselves safe and look after each other,” says Inspector Sycamore.
There will be a strong Police presence in traditional holiday hotspots across our region, including our beautiful beaches.
We all have a responsibility to ensure our friends and loved ones are safe this summer, so keep an eye out and report any concerns you have.”
🔵 Visible presence on Hawke’s Bay roads: If you can’t follow road rules, expect to see red and blue in your rear-view.
Inspector Sycamore says officers will continue to be out on our roads, targeting unsafe drivers.
“Alcohol continues to be a factor in a number of crashes across the region, and we will continue to set up checkpoints and breath test drivers,” he says.
"Wear your seatbelt, don’t drink and drive, stay off your phone and make sure you’re rested."
🔵 When you’re shopping, we’ll be watching
As you flash your cash at the holiday sales, Police beat teams will be conducting routine patrols through retail areas right into the New Year.
Inspector Sycamore says officers will be checking in with local store workers and members of the community.
If you feel unsafe or have concerns about dangerous, illegal or suspicious behaviour, call Police on 111.
For non-urgent concerns you can call 105 or visit www.police.govt.nz... and report the incident online.
Fence Builders
Hi Ho, Has anyone had any fencing work done by Continuum Contracting? and any comments please.
Regards
Ross
Loading…