Challenge Wānaka is the main event of the week, Wānaka area response manager Sergeant Graeme Hamblett says.

“We expect to see a significant increase in traffic volume to the area hitting its peak Friday and Saturday.” 

He asked people to be patient and considerate with their driving behaviours and with other road users.

“Drive to the conditions, keep a safe following distance and stick to the speed limits. If you have the urge to look at your mobile phone, pop it in the glove box when you’re driving, and if you feel the need to have a few social drinks… consider using alternative transport to get home safe – local taxi services, uber, sober driver should always be the go-to options… however the best option is always the non-alcoholic soft drink.”

Recently local police conducted an operation targeting the sale of alcohol to persons under the age of 18. 

“Unfortunately, a prominent local business failed by supplying alcohol to a minor,” Graeme said.

“This is a timely reminder to all local business operators, who offer the sale and supply of alcohol as part of their service, to ensure you have robust policies and practices in place to mitigate harm relating to alcohol in our community.”

The case mentioned is currently before the Alcohol Regulatory & Licencing Authority.

“Police have continued to see questionable driving behaviour on our local roads this week, including passengers not wearing seat belts and unrestrained children,” Graeme said. 

“When a vehicle is moving, and is fitted with safety belts, they must be worn.

“If you are 15 or older, it is your responsibility to ensure you wear a seatbelt. The driver is responsible for ensuring children or young passengers under 15 are kept safe. By this I mean wearing a seat belt, using a child car seat or booster seat. 

“In either case, if you are caught not abiding these simple road user rules you could be issued with a $150 on-the-spot fine.” 

Police are appealing for witnesses after an alleged assault at the BP in Three Parks on Wednesday (February 18) at around 1.35pm.

“If you witnessed this incident or have any information which may assist the investigation, please contact Police on 105 quoting file reference number 260220/6973,” Graeme said.

Read more: Information sought after daytime assault

Call 111 when you need an emergency response from police, fire or ambulance.

Call 105 to report things that don’t need urgent police assistance.

Call *555 to report road incidents that are urgent but not life-threatening.

To make an anonymous crime report contact Crime Stoppers.

PHOTO: Supplied