Increase in Dunedin car theft
Dunedin Police are urging the public to be vigilant this Christmas season after seeing an increase in vehicle theft.
Police ask owners of vehicles, particularly Toyota Aqua and Mazda Demio owners to ensure their vehicles are locked and if possible, securely parked overnight.
Police are following strong lines of enquiry into reported vehicle thefts and are watching for vehicle crime and monitoring hotspots in the area.
Detective Sergeant Kylie Batten says, “It is upsetting and inconvenient for members of our community to be victims of incidents like this, especially heading into the busy Christmas period.”
To prevent your vehicle from being a target:
- Remove any valuables that may attract thieves.
- Park in off-street parking or a well-lit area.
- Invest in a steering lock, wheel clamp, or other theft prevention devices.
- Install cameras around your home and in your car.
“We urge members of the community to look out for each other and if you see anything suspicious happening, please contact us on 111.”
To report a theft after it has occurred, please contact 105. Information can also be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
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
‘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
Sonic Delusion at Hilltop 6/12/25
It's on tomorrow - 6/12! Too funky for folk and too folky for funk — that’s Sonic Delusion’s happy, funky, and groovy indie pop. Saturday 7.30pm. Celebrating the release of André Manella’s new single “Smoooth”, the vibrant Swiss-Kiwi performer is armed with his trusty loop pedal and an array of instruments. Sonic Delusion layers beats, baselines, and melodies into a boogielicious live performance “bursting with more funk than folk can handle.” With over 1500 shows played across Switzerland, New Zealand, Australia, and Germany, André has built a reputation for turning every gig into a feel-good party — “funny, fresh and funky… a welcome breath of entertainment, joy, fun and smiles” Graham Reid – Elsewhere. From Taranaki to the lower North Island, the “Smoooth” release tour promises catchy hooks, infectious grooves, and the perfect excuse to shake your worries away. “catchy melodic hooks that make you want to get up and dance” Amy Maynard – NZ Musician Magazine
Come along for the lovely vibe at Hilltop. Details and street number given with booking confirmation email. www.hilltophouseconcerts.co.nz..................
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