Kia ora Wānaka.

Here is a look at what the local guys and girls in blue have been up to this week.

We are all excited by the amazing fall of snow we have just received however this has caused some disruption on the roads and leaving the Crown Range temporarily closed. We have spent time this week dealing with those who chose to ignore the warning signs about these closures and who have been disrespectful to staff on the roads.

The grit truck can’t be everywhere at once, so be patient and give yourself extra time to get where you are going. Please be mindful of bridge decks and shaded areas and remember road conditions can change at any time.

If your dashboard air temperature says it’s five degrees, its usually five degrees cooler on the road surface.

In the last few days, we turned around multiple drivers trying to go over the Crown Range when it was closed and assisted some who needed help putting on chains when they were stuck.

We highly recommend you check the local council road reports and plan your journey based on this information. Stemming from this we also recommend that those who are choosing to go into the mountains that they check the local weather conditions and DOC reports ensuring to leave clear instructions of their intentions.

Check Roads and Snow reports in your Wānaka App

This is highlighted by a recent incident overnight in which Search and Rescue (SAR) and Police had to uplift two trampers from Raspberry Hut. This incident took volunteers away from their jobs and costs a lot of money to resolve for something that could have been avoided.

The avalanche danger will remain extreme for some time, so have a second or even third thought before adventuring out with the ski touring gear. Just be patient and wait for conditions to settle, this snow isn’t going anywhere fast.

Police have been kept busy this week with some assaults around town and several arrests have been made as a result of these leaving those involved having to explain themselves to the judge.

We have seen an increase in theft reports from local bars and restaurants recently. It’s time to remember to keep your jackets, phones, wallets, and bags close by when you go out for the evening.

Not everyone is trustworthy, and some are happy to help themselves to your personal property.

The station is still regularly getting reports of scammers targeting local residents. We recommend you be wary when purchasing items on social media sites. Many people are paying for goods which never turn up, only to find that the person they were communicating with does not exist and the item they were purchasing was never available for sale.

Have a great week, stay safe and keep warm.