A very busy week for all in Wānaka.

We are currently at Covid-19 alert level 3. Just to clarify for those who are not sure, level 3 does not mean level free! If you are unsure what this means, please visit the Covid-19 website for any information or clarification.

Police were kept busy this week patrolling the wider Wānaka area. A number of people were stopped, engaged with, educated and unfortunately a number of infringement notices were issued.

Police dealt with a number of people pushing the limits on their travel, their choice of exercise and the chosen location. However, the majority of the community remained vigilant and compliant with the rules of level 3.

Mahi pai, good work!

Early on in the week police got out and about in the community and visited businesses and workplaces checking in to make sure they were good to go with QR codes, sign in registers, distancing and all the other requirements for level 3. Well done to you all, it was pleasing to see how well prepared you all were.

Those who weren’t and aren’t quite up to speed, it is important that the rules for level 3 are followed and that you comply with the requirements.

Earlier in the week and in the early hours (2am), police were alerted to a vehicle doing burnouts in the forecourt of Allied Petrol Station, Hāwea. The driver was subsequently caught up with where he was dealt with appropriately and had his vehicle impounded.

On Friday night police were called to New World, Dunmore Street due to three intoxicated males who were denied service when trying to purchase alcohol. One of the males who did not have ID thought it was a good idea to use his mates ID. When denied the males became abusive and uncouth toward New World staff. The males moved on and were subsequently dealt with a short time later for breaching the liquor ban.

There were a number of family harm incidents over the week with one person arrested for a domestic assault. Alcohol was a factor in the other family harm incidents.

There have been a number of reports made to police over the past month of suspicious activity and thefts from both Wānaka New Worlds. A group have been planning and waiting until it is dark and late in the night. The group then drive in their van to the New Worlds and enter the area where the waste food is kept. The group, who are dressed in high visibility clothing and wearing headlamps then help themselves to the waste food and use plastic collapsible cartoons belonging to New World to transport the stolen treasure away.

Unfortunately for the group they overlooked the CCTV cameras and discarded how vigilant staff are at the New Worlds. The group were caught in the act by police.

As a result of the terror attack in Auckland this week, police have been conducting reassurance patrols and checks around Wānaka and in particular the supermarkets.

Keep up the good work Wānaka and fingers crossed we get a change in Covid-19 levels this week.

Kia pai to wiki