Whangārei, don’t get caught dozing on the issue of railway sleeper theft.
Police are seeking information from the public about a spate of thefts across the wider Whangārei area in the past two months.
Approximately 180 sleepers have been reported as stolen over this period, Whangārei Area Investigations Manager Detective Senior Sergeant Shane Pilmer says.
“These reports have been made from various yards across the region,” he says. We suspect that these sleepers are likely being sold off for financial gain, and it’s likely that these are being sold to unsuspecting members of the community.”
The latest theft was reported in the Port Whangārei area on 18 September. Police are asking for people to come forward if they have knowledge about the thefts.
“We also want to hear from anyone who might have been offered sleepers at a cheap price in the past couple of months. Our Tactical Crime Unit is investigating and collating reports, and the team are keen to identify those responsible,” Detective Senior Sergeant Pilmer says.
People should apply common sense and remain vigilant. “If something appears too good, or too cheap, to be true then it probably is.”
Anyone with information can update Police online or call 105 using the reference number 250919/9513.
Information can also be provided anonymously via 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
Poll: Over summer, how do you reclaim your sense of home in Northland?
When tourists take over the streets and parking disappears, where do you find your calm?
Or is summer’s hustle something to enjoy rather than escape?
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75% I enjoy the summer hubbub!
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25% Please, give me some peace
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0% I escape the region during summer
‘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
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