I hope you all enjoyed the Waitangi weekend and although it was quieter than pre-pandemic times, we need to be grateful for the freedom that we enjoy, when we consider the circumstances faced by many others in the world. 

Some people are not showing the necessary concern for others and offending continues.

Sunday saw police dealing with more than one family harm matter and a mental health matter. For anyone experiencing similar, remember it is always better to seek help when things may be getting on top of you, please seek support as early as possible. We always look to engage the community with support so people can get the help they need. 

Monday continued with a flurry of other problems with damage reported to three business premises on Ardmore Street over the weekend. We have excellent video footage of the offender; it may be wise for this person to hand themselves in before he makes a guest appearance on Police 10/7.

The rest of the week police concentrated on our traffic duties and we probably need to reflect on our driving to ensure we comply with the speed limits. Choose to drive within the limits and you are safer as are other road users.

On Thursday police dealt with the search for a local male and Wanaka Search and Rescue volunteers were deployed to search for him. The male was located late at night and the matter has had to be referred to the coroner. Our condolences are extended to his family in what are tragic circumstances.

Friday saw police arrest a male for breach of his bail conditions and he enjoyed a night in the cells at Queenstown. Hopefully he will be more respectful of the court imposed bail conditions.

Sunday saw police deal with the sudden death of a local elderly lady. Our condolences go to the family and we hope they are comforted in their grief. The matter has been referred to the coroner.

Police and emergency services also attended to a reported motorcycle accident at Makarora after a rider experienced a medical event. He managed to dust himself off and ride off into the sunset, leaving emergency services looking to help the vanishing man.

Keep safe this week, be careful not to drink and drive, treat each other with the kindness you would like to be shown yourself.