Kia Ora Wānaka.

Another week has flown by in paradise. I hope you are all enjoying the warmer days and finding some time to enjoy the sun. This week Wānaka police have been busy dealing with reports of crime that is not so common here.

We have had various reports of dishonesty around the town. Albert Town residents sighted someone attempting to open vehicle doors. A reminder to you all – please ensure you keep valuables out of sight and lock your vehicles. You never know when thieves are out roaming around.

The coastguard hanger was burgled last week with some expensive items taken. Considering the coastguard is a service that is helping the community this is very disappointing.

The Hāwea Golf Club was burgled overnight on Sunday, where damage has been done and cash was taken. Forensic investigations are underway to identify any culprits. If you have any information or sightings of people/vehicles in the area overnight on Sunday (October 10), we would like to hear from you.

We dealt with a family harm matter where a person was arrested. The Wānaka Community Hub has many services available and can put people in touch with agencies which can help when times get tough.

It was good to see people out on the town enjoying themselves over the weekend. Thanks to all of you who are complying with the Level-2 restrictions.

As usual we are always out monitoring roads ensuring people are keeping their eyes on the road. There were quite a few people caught using their mobile phones while driving. Remember this is a huge distraction and we ask that you pull over or use hands free, otherwise you will see yourself with a $150 infringement and 20 demerit points.

A person reported a fraud matter where they paid via bank transfer and did not receive the goods. Purchasing online, from strangers, is a risk. I would advise not to do it. It’s always safer to do a face-to-face purchase.

We dealt with an abusive customer at a local store who was subsequently trespassed, neither police, nor the store staff, will tolerate this behaviour.

We had reports of youths hanging out in large groups wandering the streets late at night. Some of which think it's funny to door knock people and run away. A reminder to parents to keep an eye on where your young ones are. I’m sure these youths don’t want police knocking on their doors.

Finally, we had some expensive items handed into to our lost property last week which I’m sure people are looking for. One black drone found in the Albert Town area, one large toolbox containing tools, and over ten cell phones from the ski fields.

If you have lost keys, remember to check at the police station as the box is filling up. Please pop into the station, during day hours to collect.

Have a great week and keep safe.