Be aware of this WhatsApp scam
Police are warning people to be wary of a WhatsApp scam following an increase in reports in the Wellington District.
In this case scammers use WhatsApp to impersonate family members or friends in saying they need help and in particular need money.
Victims of this scam have received a message from an unknown number, claiming to be a loved one who has just lost their phone and got a replacement.
The scammer then attempts to obtain the victim’s credit card information.
These kinds of scams run constantly and while most people will not respond or buy into them, some people are more vulnerable.
We urge people to have conversations with vulnerable or elderly family members, to help ensure they are aware of the tactics often used by scammers and don't become victims.
If you are in doubt because a person is claiming to be a family member or friend, ask them a personal question – for example their date of birth, maiden name, pet name or name of a sibling.
Do not provide a password, credit card or bank details without making absolute sure, it is someone you know.
No legitimate agency will contact you and ask for your bank details or credit card out of the blue.
Police’s message on scams like this is simple – do not engage with anyone on the phone, and if you think you are being scammed report the incident immediately.
Anyone who believes they are a victim of a scam, in person, over the phone or online, should immediately report it to their bank, and then to their local Police.
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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53.2% Yes
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46.8% No
Constable Street car wash rip off!
Hi, today I went to the Constable Street car wash that's beside the petrol station. After depositing $6 for three different rinse cycles I discovered that there was no water pressure for any of them. I had just foamed my car so I had to drive around and join the que again to use the left car wash....this time I discovered that $2 only rinses half of my small Suzuki Swift whereas $2 used to rinse the whole car nicely. Two or three weeks ago I encountered the same 'no water pressure' problem there. I imagine that people will be depositing $2 coins to no avail in a continuous stream. It appears that the owner doesn't care about providing a proper service to to their paying customers.
"Christmas Ukulele Jam" <> Island Bay <> Sat 13th Dec
Tinsel up and come along to play and sing some most-loved Christmas carols and Christmas songs.
7pm, 88 The Parade, Island Bay. Doors open 6.30pm.
Bring a friend or the family, your guitar or ukulele, whistle or fiddle - all acoustic instruments are welcome. If you'd just like to sing, that's great!
Bring a music stand and a tablet to access the songbook - here: heyzine.com...
There will also be paper songbooks on the night.
The church is 100m city side of the Island Bay shops. Good off-street parking right there.
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