Kia ora Wānaka.

Another very busy week for all in Wānaka as we adjust to alert level 2, albeit with several changes to help combat Delta.

As we all know we are currently sitting at Covid-19 alert level 2. While many freedoms have been returned, we still need to remain vigilant and ensure we are adhering to the current restrictions and health advice. A number of people continued to push the limits towards the end of alert level 3. Regardless of what level we are at don’t let fatigue kick in!

It was well publicised of an Auckland couple who blatantly disregarded level 4 lockdown restrictions and travelled to Wānaka for a spot of skiing. The couple have since returned to Auckland where they will face charges for their actions.

Please inform police if you see or hear any similar behaviour, we don’t want the actions of a few to compromise all the great work we have done thus far.

Police attended a fatal motorbike crash on the Crown Range. Our thoughts and condolences are with the family. Thank you to those who stopped and assisted at the crash scene and to all those who travelled around the Cromwell way to get to Queenstown.

Local businesses have done a great job adhering to their requirements of alert level 2 using novel ways to continue to operate. Police continue to get out and about visiting businesses and workplaces checking to make sure they were complying with QR codes, sign in registers, distancing and all the other requirements for level 2.

A male was refused service from a local bottle store for his intoxication levels. He left the premises in his vehicle and was subsequently breath tested a short time later. He will be off to court this week after blowing nearly four times the legal limit.

The owner of a vehicle who had it parked in their driveway found a drunk man inside it during the early hours of the morning. The male was bringing up the contents of his dinner. Police were unable to locate the man and inquiries are ongoing. To avoid situations like this please ensure to lock and secure all vehicles regardless of where they are parked.

A check point on Aubrey Road found one driver in breach of their licence conditions and one who blew over three times the legal limit. There were two others stopped in the weekend for drink driving. One in Luggate and another coming from the Lindis Pass who produced a shocking breath alcohol reading over six times the legal limit. These drivers will be off to court and will spend some time without a licence.

Several drivers in the Wānaka area were handed driving suspension notices for excess demerit points. This will see them off the road for the next three months. Not wearing your seatbelt, impaired whilst driving, being distracted and or speeding will quickly see your demerit points rack up and find you in a similar situation.

A shoplifter who had committed a number of thefts in local supermarkets was caught and will be off to explain their actions in front of the judge.

Be patient, be prepared and be kind. Nga Mihi.