Wānaka Police dealt with light-fingered Aussies, a fleeing driver, and a missing teenager this past week, acting response manager Dylan Hannah-Jones said.

“A group of four light-fingered Australian skiers were apprehended by police after ‘forgetting’ to pay for all of their chosen grocery items at New World,” he said. 

“They were tracked down to a bar in Wānaka, ejected by police and forced to return and pay for their items. 

“They were trespassed for their shoplifting efforts so might have to settle for Coronet Peak for their skiing now.”

Police worked hard to locate missing teenager, Aiden, Dylan said.

“After three and a half days, he was located safe and well by police late Sunday morning.”

Dylan thanked the Wānaka community for their assistance in the search.

A vehicle fled police in Wānaka on Thursday night (June 26) after being signalled to stop for dangerous driving. 

Police did not engage in a pursuit at the time but after some investigation the vehicle was located in Lake Hāwea, Dylan said.

A search warrant was executed, impounding the vehicle for six months, and one person arrested.

Dylan congratulated local drivers after last week’s heavy snow through Cardrona, which caused police no issues.

“People had their chains and knew how to use them. Good work Wānaka,” Dylan said.

“Lastly, as we see an influx of winter activity in Wānaka, we want to encourage our community to call us if they see people or vehicles acting suspiciously. 

“Sharing information on community pages can be a useful tool, but make your first call to police so we can respond quickly and stand the best chance of preventing a crime from taking place.”

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