Good morning, afternoon, or whatever time you are reading this Wanaka.

I’m pretty sure we have all felt the temperature drop lately with winter fast approaching. As you will be aware the roads are going to get icy and topped up with necessary gritting, driving becomes just that bit more hazardous.

So, it’s time to act in a preventative way and check the condition of your vehicle tyres, overall condition and get those chains in the boot.

And speaking of prevention your local police were able to conduct some prevention activities around seatbelts, cell phones, stop signs and general driving this past week. Not too impressive unfortunately Wanaka with several infringement notices written for all. Please remember these are safety issues and what may appear trivial can save lives in the long run.

Speed around town is also an issue. With the lowering of the speed limits and the road works with reduced zones some are still not adhering to posted signage. It’s there to be seen so please stick to it as again this is a safety issue especially for those working on the roads in these areas.

Bit of a roundup of last week.

Saturday night Sunday morning saw a drunk male not find his way back to his accommodation and instead sleep in the storeroom at a separate accommodation provider. When spoken to, he was suitably apologetic.

Speaking of alcohol, early Sunday morning saw police break up a bit of scuffle between a group of drunk males outside the Night and Day store on Ardmore Street. No real damage and just a bit of a handbags at dawn encounter.

A vehicle crash on the Crown Range Road on Thursday saw a car lose control on the ice and crash into the opposite bank ending up on its side. Luckily no one was hurt, and the driver was able to get out and call for help.

For up to date road Reports see your Wanaka App

The cycle helmet campaign is still running with several people being stopped for either no helmet or lights or both at night. Please wear your helmets and get lights on your bikes as you become one with the darkness and very hard to see. So again, as with the theme of today, think safety.

Police have this week attended several mental health issues where people have been directed towards service providers. Remember if you or someone you know is having a tough time it’s always OK to reach out and ask for help.

We still have a fair bit of lost and found property at the station, so come on in and chance your luck we may well have what you lost.

Well enough from me, have a fantastic week Wanaka and stay safe.