Posted Tuesday 18th June

19 June 2013

CRIMELINE by Constable Dion Phair 

Posted Tuesday 11th June

11 June 2013

CRIMELINE by Constable Martin Barham

The Wanaka Police have been busy dealing with a variety of incidents over the past week. 

I am constantly amazed that people continue to drink drive.  This week three people have been processed for drinking and driving, with one offender reaching almost double the legal limit.  Booze impairs your driving reactions, which could lead to a crash. 

With the winter weather well and truly upon us it is important that we remember to drive to the conditions.  There have been two crashes on our roads this week where the drivers have been caught out by ice, fortunately there were no injuries in either incident.

When taking longer journeys remember to have snow chains, let people know your travel plans and allow extra time to reach your destination.

Over the weekend a Rolf Harris wannabe decide to draw over the windows at the LWC.  The graffiti on this occasion was easily removed.

The Minaret Station Pusher Boat was damaged last week while on dry dock at Waterfall Creek.  A number of people have been charged with committing this offence.

Many comments have been made about our new roundabout on Ardmore Street.  Whatever your thoughts maybe about it the contractors are constantly having the work site signage stolen or knocked over.  The signs are left there for the protection of the site workers, motorists and pedestrians, so please leave them alone.  Cones are not to be worn as hats when you've had one too many sherbets.

A fire occurred at the Fitzpatrick's Bar on Monday night, which will be sad news for some.  Well done to the staff and patrons for acting responsibly in evacuating the premises.  Thanks also to the fire service for such a quick response.

Enjoy the week ahead.

Posted Tuesday 4th June

4 June 2013

CRIME LINE:   By Constable Peter Reed

1. 27/05/13 6:40pm police were called to the Matterhorn backpackers to deal with a male who spent two nights in the backpackers and did not pay. He has been trespassed from the premises.
2. 27/05/13 6:55pm the driver of a Nissan Tilda lost control on State Highway 6 near the gates of Haast, the vehicle left the road and crashed into a memorial causing damage.
3. 28/05/13 1:56pm the driver of a car forgot to apply the handbrake whilst parking and then accidentally hit the accelerator, causing the car to crash through the shop window of Orbis.
4. 29/05/13 10:00am a scorched tree was located to the rear of an address on Main Road in Luggate. It is unsure at this stage if the fire was deliberately lit or an ember has been quietly burning away in some dried leaves. Either way we would like some info on this.
5. 29/05/13 10:00am a resident on Aubrey Road opened his door in response to a door knock to find nobody there. When he checked his firewood he noticed a portion was missing.
6. We are pleased to report that another person has handed in a wallet containing over $1000 to the station. This has been returned to the grateful owner. This story restores my faith in humanity, good on that person!
7. 01/06/13 12:14am Wänaka police arrested a male for disorderly behaviour. At this time his associate tried to get involved and was arrested also. It seems one of the offending party had been smoking K2, enough said about that.
8. 01/06/13 09:40am. A resident on Capell Ave had his letter box kicked off its pedestal.
9. 02/06/13 3:00am police had to deal with an intoxicated group who called for police assistance regarding a very intoxicated male who was at that time unconscious. The group disgruntled with the police response became verbally abusive. One male was warned of arrest and ran off. I must mention of note whilst this group was tying up police resources with their behaviour, the drunken male they were concerned about got up and walked home.
10. 03/06/13 1:15am a male who was driving through Makarora crashed his vehicle. It seems he hit some surface water on the road lost control and left the highway.
11. 03/06/2013 offenders have gone onto private property on the Wänaka - Luggate Highway and entered a barn. They took a tractor out in the paddock and performed a few donuts and left the tractor in situ.
12. 03/06/13 08:30am A driver on the crown range lost control of his vehicle, it spun out and came to rest on its side in the opposite lane. The driver admitted to going to fast for the snowy and icy conditions. Please adjust your speed to the weather conditions.
13. 03/06/13 it was reported to police that somebody tried to break in to an address on Bills Way. Luckily the security of the property prevented the burglar's entry. You can't beat good security; anything that makes it hard for criminals makes me happy.

Have a great week.

Posted Tuesday 28th May

30 May 2013

CRIMELINE:  Senior Constable Sean HURLEY

21/05/2013      A male was apprehended driving under the influence of cannabis.

Posted Tuesday 14th May

15 May 2013

CRIME LINE:   By Constable Mel Twyman  

Its getting cold, Wanaka will be gearing up for winter in no time.  The town seems pretty quiet at the moment, here's a few of the things that have been happening around town:

1. On Sunday 12th May a local resident was processed for drink driving.
2. On Saturday 11th May another local resident was arrested for threatening a police officer.  I've always wondered why someone might consider this a wise idea.  Perhaps a little less alcohol might assist some in their decision making skills.
3. On Friday 10th of May it was reported to us the 'cow' has been stolen from the weather vane at the Cow Restaurant.  If you know where it is let us know, they're keen to have it returned.
4. On the 9th May another local resident was arrested for an historic theft from a local bar.

 You may have noticed us running a speed campaign in the school zones and with the school buses since the start of the new term.  The speed for moving past a stationary school bus is 20km p/hr, and that’s no matter which side of the road you are on.  Some are very good at it and some are not.  For those who are not: at more than 50km over the limit you will lose your licence on the spot and be off to court.  Have a think about it, in a 100km zone you only need to be doing 71km before this is you.  The speed does some serious damage to an adult, do I really need to tell you what it would do to a child?  They don’t say speed kills for nothing.

Lastly, with the cold and frosty mornings means defrosting windscreens, don’t forget.

If you have any information pertaining to the incidents above please call the Station on 03 443 7272 to speak to an Officer, or to give information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Have a great week.

Posted Tuesday 7th May

7 May 2013

CRIME LINE:   By Constable Peter Reed    

Last Saturday it was reported to us that the skate park toilets had been damaged. Someone stuffed toilet paper in the bowl and set it alight. Also we received reports that someone ripped a door off the hinges at the dinosaur park. It baffles me why certain individuals want to damage a public facility.

Also last Saturday a female reported that a naked male approached her from his home address on Lakeview Terrace in Häwea and asked her to come and stay.

Last Sunday a driver was apprehended on State Highway 84 near Macpherson Street. She was breathalysed and blew nearly double the legal limit.

During the weekend a very large amount of money was handed into the station. This was returned to the grateful owner on Monday. The owner was a tourist who has now left town spreading the word about how amazing the people of Wänaka are. 

On the 6th of May it was reported to us that offenders have spray painted the words "Bobie", "Looner" and "FTP" on one of the college rooms at Mount Aspiring College.

Also in the early hours of last Monday two females came out of post office lane. It seems that one of the females took a dislike to the other one and wrestled her to the ground. It seems that when they hit the ground one of the females sustained a cut and left a substantial amount of blood at the scene. The CCTV showed that two other patrons of post office lane offered assistance to the injured female. I would like to know if anyone has any information that would shed light on who was involved in this incident.

Lastly, with the cold and frosty mornings upon us please leave yourself a little extra time in the morning to defrost your vehicles. You will get an instant $150 fine if you are stopped with an obscured windscreen.

 If you have any information pertaining to the incidents above please call the Station on 03 443 7272 to speak to an Officer, or to give information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Have a great week.

Posted Tuesday 30th April

30 April 2013

CRIMELINE:  Senior Constable Sean HURLEY

23/04/2013-     A 19 year old local male was arrested for failing to appear at court.

23/04/2013-     Theft of a 20 metre garden hose from a Brownston Street business address.

23/04/2013-     Report of an attempt to break into a car on Heron Place, Albert Town.

23/04/2013-     Police dealt with a report of dispute over money which led to aggressive and threatening behaviour on Sandy's Lane.

26/04/2013-     Two females caught on video shoplifting from Paper Plus, enquiries to identify these two are continuing.

26/04/2013-     Wilful damage to two letter boxes on Wilkin Road and another on Kuri Place. We believe these were the result of a noisy and out of control party that spilled onto the street and party goers have caused the damage nearby. Please don't hesitate to call noise control or the Police straight away in these situations.

27/04/2013-     A 26 year old local male crashed his vehicle on Ballantyne Road and was breathalysed by police with a reading of 1062 mgm's.

27/04/2013-     Wilful damage in the form of graffiti to the public toilet near the skate park.

27/04/2013-     27 year old male from Masterton was apprehended for driving with excess breath alcohol on Muir Road at Lake Häwea, he blew 483 mgm's.

27/04/2013-     Police dealt with a dispute between a male and a female on Church Road at Luggate.

27/04/2013-     A 19 year old local female was apprehended for under 20 years excess breath alcohol on Lismore Street, Wänaka, she blew 224 mgm's.

29/04/2013-     Police received a report of a YAK X3 fighter plane at Wänaka Airport being hit by a bullet fired through the wall of the hanger. The projectile ended up lodged in the plane transponder.  Police are continuing to investigate this matter.

If you have any information pertaining to the incidents above please call the Station on 03 443 7272 to speak to an Officer, or to give information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111                        

Posted Tuesday 23rd April

23 April 2013

Crime Line by Constable Greg Nolet

 Thefts have come out as a theme this week including the following.

• A mountain bike stolen from a Brownston Street address.
• A Mai Mai was taken from the Luggate area.
• A wallet and a box of beer from a parked car in Warren Street while the owner was out for dinner.
• Two necklaces were stolen from a store in town.

We dealt with a Trade Me window sale that went bad. Please be careful of your purchases on the World Wide Web not everyone is as honest as we would like.

We have also had some quality behaviour.  A large amount of cash was returned to a visitor this week, the owner was very happy with this reminder of how a small town works.

A trailer at the Wanaka Yacht club had its tyres slashed, this is not right people!!!

We stopped a local lady on State Highway 8A who was driving whilst disqualified, her car has been impounded for 28 days and she will go to court for this.

Our newest Constable, Dion Phair thought that Christmas comes only but once a year, but on Thursday night a nice sized "Stag" trotted down Ardmore Street. It was not located at the time and I understand this animal was located the next morning.

A small fire was lit at the skate park this week. The young men and women that go there should have more pride in the place. It is not like we built it without a view.

Last week we did an educational campaign, on a couple of roads around town with a school bus. The limit is 20km/h while you go past a school bus that is stopped and displaying a "school" sign, this is on BOTH sides of the road.

51 km/h past the bus and the fine is $300 and 40 demerits.

71km/h past the bus, you will be suspended instantly for 28 days and have to go to court.  Please slow down. It is the kids we are looking after here.

Anybody witnessing any suspicious behaviour should be calling us. Remember you are our eyes and ears. Our Station number is 03 443 7272 or you can give information anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Keep the fire wood dry now and take care.

Posted Tuesday 16th April

23 April 2013

CRIME LINE:   By Constable Philip Vink

 We have had a steady effort in trying to make the local intersections safer in Wänaka, This effort has included speaking with motorists about the round about rules and issuing fines to motorists who fail to stop at stop signs. Last Wednesday we attended a non-injury collision at the Dungarvon and Brownston Street intersection when a motorist failed to stop and check the way was clear. These types of collisions can cause major injuries so please adhere to the signage, stop means stop.

During the week we dealt with a 23 year old male drink driver who was driving a car that hadn't passed a warrant or been registered in five years. I expect the judge will have some good advice and fines for this offending.

The ongoing issue of underage drinking is something our town battles with. Some parents support it and others fight it. Wänaka youth are exposed to the alcohol culture of New Zealand more so than most other New Zealand youths which adds to the challenge. The key message that comes from today's science is delay, delay, delay. Keeping good contact with your children and with their friends parents is one of the keys to keeping your children safe.

3.50 am on Sunday morning we found a 28 year old male from Riverton sleeping on the stairs at 4 square, he was so drunk he could not speak and couldn't tell us his address. I wonder where his mates were. He ended up in our cells.

We are looking for a stolen push bike (red Specialized 10 speed, no hand grips) stolen from a Brownston St address whilst attending a party there.

School holidays coming up means our young folk will be out and about town so please slow down and keep them in mind.

If you have any information pertaining to the incidents above please call the Station on

03 443 7272 to speak to an Officer, or to give information anonymously, call

Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

 Have a great week.

Posted Tuesday 9th April

9 April 2013

CRIME LINE:   By Constable Dion Phair

1.    There have been a couple of complaints regarding people walking dogs in public areas without leads.  Please be aware that not everyone has an affinity for dogs, and others are outright scared of them.  Please keep your dogs on a lead in public areas.

2.    A 17 year old male facing burglary charges was arrested for breaching his bail conditions over the weekend.  

3.    Police attended to a male intent on harming himself.  When located the male turned his violent intent toward police and may now face charges of assaulting police.

4.    With the recent addition of two roundabouts in town there will be the standard teething problems with regard to giving way and indicating.

1.  
   •  
     • Always Give Way to your right
     • If turning left, indicate left
     • If travelling straight through only indicate left when exiting
     • If turning right, indicate right, then indicate left when exiting

Police will be patrolling these and if you fail to give way or create an incident, expect to be issued with a ticket.  Make it easy for other drivers.

5.    Speed is still a major factor in our area.  If you speed, you will be fined and accrue demerit points.  Remember to keep left at all times.

6.    We are still seeking witnesses for an incident whereby a glass panel was smashed that formed part of a covered walkway on Ardmore Street. It is believed that the offender used a glass bottle to smash the glass. This incident occurred just outside the ritual cafe.

7.    Incidents involving Synthetic Cannabinoids (fake cannabis) such as K2 / Kronic are starting to rear their ugly heads.  People we have dealt with while under the influence can be bordering on psychotic.  It makes normal people do very bad things.  Please say no to taking these products, as they, along with other drugs will harm your future.

If you have any information pertaining to the incidents above please call the Station on

03 443 7272 to speak to an Officer, or to give information anonymously, call

Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Have a great week.

Posted Tuesday 2nd April

2 April 2013

CRIME LINE:   By Constable Peter Reed

1. Last Wednesday Wanaka Search and rescue were called to the Rob Roy walking track. A female had fallen 10 metres down a bank and received moderate injuries. She was flown out by helicopter for treatment of her injuries.
2. Last Thursday officers located and arrested a 17 year old male who was wanted on warrant for failing to appear at court.
3. Also last Thursday officers had to deal with an incident where a youth pushed a 10 year old girl off her bicycle and went onto punch and kick her. This incident occurred at the Mcmurdo Park in Albert Town.
4. Wanaka police caught a drink driver on Anderson's road in the early hours of Saturday morning. The driver blew just over the legal limit.
5. On Saturday evening a male was arrested for breaching the liquor ban on Ardmore Street. His fatal mistake was to try and conceal the alcohol from officers.
6. Also on Saturday evening officers were called to a number of youths being disorderly outside a liquor store. Their behaviour was allegedly so bad that the manager of the store closed the shop.
7. A youth was dealt with for trespassing in the early hours of Sunday morning on Meadowstone drive. It is believed that the youth may have tried to climb on to a first floor balcony.
8. On Sunday evening a male was arrested for being extremely aggressive with staff at New World. Once arrested the male assaulted a police officer and now faces four separate charges and a court appearance for his appalling behaviour. Unfortunately an officer was injured in the incident.
9. We are seeking witnesses for an incident whereby a glass panel was smashed that formed part of a covered walkway on Ardmore Street. It is believed that the offender used a glass bottle to smash the glass. This incident occurred just outside the ritual cafe.

Posted Tuesday 26th March

27 March 2013

Crime Line by Constable Greg Nolet

Last week saw some drunken behaviour of both locals and tourists keeping the local Police busy.

On Friday night a large group of school aged youths were running around town drinking up large, doing so in the New World car park and other noticeable spots around town. Police arrested one young man as a result of this. That is one young person to many.

 We processed three drink drivers this week. All drivers were over twice the limit for there ages, two adult and one youth. That's not good.

 We attended three vehicle crashes. A couple of tourists in the Matukituki Valley near Raspberry Flat kept Police busy for a few hours.

 A report of theft of a chair, pillow and a duvet from outside a van in the Wanaka Lake View Motor camp saw a visitor unhappy with her stay.

 The Misuse of Drugs Act 1975 was used twice this week, I guess some people are just slow learners, or are just not learning at all in this matter.

 We attended a burglary of a house in Mt Iron Drive which saw a local man arrested and put in front of the courts, the property was returned undamaged which is the only good thing here. Keep out of what is not yours.

 Domestic situations sometimes break down and need Police to help, if you feel that you can't handle the acrimonious break up of your relationship then we are here to help and are able to give you guidance on support agencies in these hard times. Please seek help. Friends and family should be helpers to.

 Firewood is being cut and delivered all over town. Please secure that load, a net or canvas cover is easy to use or you can expect a $600.00 fine for that insecure load.

 Expect to see the Police out on the roads this Easter weekend. We will be monitoring your speed and checking for drink drivers. So please don't drink and drive and stay safe on the roads.

 Enjoy the Easter break and easy on the chocolate, luckily our Senior Sergeant does not like chocolate so will not be accepting bribes of Easter eggs.

Posted Tuesday 19th March

19 March 2013

CRIMELINE:  Senior Constable Sean HURLEY

11/03/2013-     Theft of two commercial sized chilly bins stolen whilst exhibitors at the Show were packing up on Monday morning.

12/03/2013-15/03/2013  Police are investigating reports of suspicious fires in Hikuwai Reserve, Frye Crescent and Jack Young Place at Albert Town. On the 12th or 13th March three young boys aged 9 to 12 years were seen near Jack Young Place where smoke was observed near them and they were seen to be trying to extinguish the fire.

13/03/2013-     Theft of fuel tanks from a boat parked at a holiday home on Kings Drive. A timely reminder to all owners of holiday houses to make sure all your property is locked up and secure.

14/03/2013-     Häwea male arrested for breaching his bail conditions.

15/03/2013-     A life jacket was taken that is the property of Wanaka Kayaks could the people in the Terrano who took it please return it to Wanaka Kayaks.

15/03/2013-     Report of the theft of a large cardboard Cadburys Easter Promotional Rabbit from New World, the offender needs to know he has been caught on their nice video system and if he reads this it would be best if he handed himself in before his image is published in an attempt to identify the culprit.

16/03/2013-     A 50 year old female was apprehended for excess breath alcohol with a reading of 800 mgm's which is double the legal limit.

16/03/2013-     Police dealt with a fight between a mother and son on Rata Street.

16/03/2013-     Police dealt with a male for last week's theft of legal high substances from Betty Liquor.

17/03/2013-     Report of theft of hiking boots at a Wanaka Backpackers hostel.

If you have any information pertaining to the incidents above please call the Station on 03 443 7272 to speak to an Officer, or to give information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111            

Posted Tuesday 12th March

13 March 2013

CRIMELINE:  Senior Constable Sean HURLEY

06/03/2013-     A 65 year old local male arrested for unlawful possession of a firearm and ammunition as well as possession and cultivation of cannabis.

08/03/2013-     Theft of 2 x 25 litre petrol containers from a boat at a Meadowstone Drive address.

08/03/2013-     4 male drivers apprehended for excess breath alcohol.

08/03/2013-     A mountain bicycle was stolen from outside Base backpackers is a Norco Brand coloured black, white and red.

08/03/2013-     Report of wilful damage to the shelter on the Trevathan Lane Reserve

09/03/2013-     Police dealt with a domestic dispute at a Bernard Road, Albert Town address.

09/03/2013-     A car was broken into near the Upton Street tennis courts and two digital cameras.  Please for the security of your property lock your vehicle to deter thieves.         

09/03/2013-     Report of an assault on Pembroke Park.

09/03/2013-     A 49 year old male arrested for possession of utensils for smoking cannabis.

09/03/2013-     A 19 year old male from Cromwell arrested for obstructing police.

10/03/2013-     A 19 year old male from Gore arrested for depositing dangerous litter after he chose to smash a glass bottle on the footpath.

10/03/2013-     A 33 year old male from Christchurch arrested for trespass at a Short Road, Luggate address.

10/03/2013-     Theft of a legal high substance from Betty's Liquor, the local male is known to police and will be located and dealt with perhaps he may wish to take the first step of handing himself into Constable NOLET.

If you have any information pertaining to the incidents above please call the Station on 03 443 7272 to speak to an Officer, or to give information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

Posted Tuesday 5th March

7 March 2013

CRIME LINE:   By the Watchhouse Officer

1. On the 26/02/13 a vehicle parked in the middle of the day at the Roy's Peak track car park had its right rear quarter panel window smashed to gain entry to the vehicle. The offender has then taken the owners property from the boot. This is a reminder to not leave valuables in your vehicle. On this occasion the offender may have witnessed the owners putting all their valuables in the boot. 
2. That afternoon a 7 year old girl was approached by a male as she was making her way home from school. He asked her to come with him. She did the right thing and ran straight home and told her parents. Investigations are still ongoing and we ask that parents drop their children off at school or that you walk with a buddy or in groups.
3. A local shop had its front door smashed in by two offenders on the night of 28/02/13.
4. Police made three arrests during the week for Disqualified driving, Disorderly Behaviour and Male assaults female. All offenders will be attending Queenstown court for their actions.
5. On the 1/03/13 police attended a party on Meadowstone Drive that got out of hand and very noisy. There were many intoxicated 16 and 17year old locals present who were moved on and sent home.  
6. On Sunday the 2/03/13 two 11 year olds were found inside the classrooms of the Old Primary School on Tenby Street. They have been spoken to and warned for going onto private property.
7. A large box of tools has been handed into the station. If they belong to you and you can identify them please come and see us, we'd like to return them to their rightful owner.

If you have any information pertaining to the incidents above please call the Station on 03 443 7272 to speak to an Officer, or to give information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Have a great week.

Posted Tuesday 26th February

26 February 2013

CRIME LINE:   By Constable Peter Reed    

1. On the 19th of February police were called to a traffic crash where a motorcyclist took the wrong line on a right turn in Makarora he left the road and hit a deer fence. The rider was injured yet we are happy to report he survived the crash.

1. Last Friday a male was arrested for deliberately setting off a fire alarm. He was charged with the offence and faces a court appearance and surprise surprise alcohol was a factor.

1. Also last Friday officers arrested a male for damaging an irrigation system on Meadowstone drive, the 28 year old faces a court appearance for his troubles. If only the irrigation system would encourage him to "grow" up.

1. Last Saturday at around 3pm Search and Rescue personnel were deployed to the Niger stream where a canyoner had injured his lower back. He was flown to the Wänaka medical centre for treatment.

1. A disgruntled alcohol fuelled 60 year old female  fell out with her husband and walked off along State highway 6 on Saturday night, this was after refusing to be taken home by police on numerous occasions. She spent the night under a bush in Albert Town before being picked up by her husband in the morning.

1. On Saturday a male was processed for drink driving after police came across his car straddling a fence post at the junction between Muir Road and Cemetery Road in Häwea. The male driver blew almost 3 times the legal limit he faces a court appearance.

1. We have also had complaints of theft of fruit from fruit trees on private property at Lakeside Road. School children have been caught taking the fruit without permission. This is theft and needs to stop.

1. On March the 1st QLDC are implementing a number of speed zone changes in the greater Wänaka area.  The QLDC have been advertising the changes over various media sources.  We will have police patrols out in some of these areas.  Our aim initially will be to educate people on the changes but any highly excessive speeds will be ticketed.

If you have any information pertaining to the incidents above please call the Station on 03 443 7272 to speak to an Officer, or to give information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Have a great week.

Posted Tuesday 19th February

21 February 2013

CRIMELINE:  Senior Constable Sean HURLEY

 12/02/2013     

Two females from the USA were dealt with for theft of bottles of Vodka from the Mint Bar.

14/02/2013

We had another report of theft from a motor vehicle overnight in the alleyway behind New World. This brings our numbers to over 10 thefts from vehicles and boats. Please remember to lock up you vehicles, leave them in well lit areas overnight and remove all valuables.

15/02/2013     

A 65 year old local male apprehended cutting firewood from the bank of the Häwea River in the Albert Town Camp Ground, please ensure you have the land owners permission before removing any wood. Police dealt with two local teenagers arguing at the skate park. A 27 year old Hawea male was apprehended for excess breath alcohol after he crashed his car on State Highway 6. He blew 631 mgm's.16/02/2013    A male crashed his light coloured Isuzu Big Horn into two vehicles on Tötara Terrace, Wänaka. Police seek any information that can assist in identifying the vehicle or driver, please contact Constable Barham.  Police attended a domestic dispute at a wedding party at Criffel station, thankfully it wasn't the newly weds. Enquiries are continuing to resolve the allegations.A dog was located outside the Dough Bin and rescued by a local lady after a group of males fired a BB gun at him injuring his side.   Burglary reported at a Holly Hock Lane address.

17/02/2013     

Two local males committed intentional damage at an address on Meadowstone Drive pulling out the irrigation system, a 27 year old local male has been charged with wilful damage his co-offender better come in and resolve the issue, your identity is known to Police. Please contact Constable Barham.   A 13 year old male apprehended for disorderly behaviour at Wänaka Skate Park.   Offenders have removed all the drain covers from the drains and dropped them into the drains in the Meadowstone area. Very dangerous behaviour!  Wanaka Police attended six motor vehicle crashes over the week. Three of those were at intersections. Please take care when driving out there.  Two local males were arrested for disorderly behaviour in relation to an incident on the 09/02/2013.

If you have any information pertaining to the incidents above please call the Station on 03 443 7272 to speak to an Officer, or to give information anonymously, call Crime stoppers on 0800 555 111

Posted Tuesday 12th February

12 February 2013

CRIME LINE by Constable Greg Nolet

Hello Wanaka people and welcome to the start of the second week of the school year. We have been doing patrols around schools in the morning and following the buses as they do their pick up and drop offs. The traffic we have witnessed is doing a pretty good job on the whole with just a couple of speeders on Aubrey Road. Please remember the speed limit while going past a school bus that is displaying the 'SCHOOL' sign is 20km/h.

Three drink drivers have been caught this week with one double the limit. These drivers will be getting a minimum 6 months disqualification of their licences. Be smart, arrange alternative travel before you start drinking.

In Sherwin Avenue a vehicle was broken into and work tools were taken. Please take care to remove valuables from your vehicle and park

There were some domestic related incidents around the town. Look after your neighbours and speak up if there are problems. There are a few avenues out there which offer help, please use these services as they are here for you.

We have 2 x 23litre boat petrol tanks which we believe are from some of the thefts from last week, if you could help ID these that would be great.

2 people breached the liquor ban and letter boxes were damaged in Wänaka and Häwea this week.

We have had a complaint from a local business that someone is making orders and booking services for the business that are not required or wanted causing a large cost to the business. Please be aware that we can track phone numbers and it is an offence to make bookings for other companies or businesses without their approval.

The 'Idiot Act' of the week goes to the people who drove their car into the wheelie bins and recycle bins on Peakview Ridge Aubrey Road intersection. 

Some people had an altercation with 3 males on the lake front where it is alleged that a wooden pole and a baseball bat were brandished. 

Fisherman have told me that there is still drift wood in the lakes so be careful on the lake. They also didn't tell me where the fish were biting.

A hint while the town is on quiet, get your cars sorted for the change of seasons, tyres, oil changes and warrants. Check those head lights, because when you need them one will not work.

If you have any information pertaining to the incidents above please call the Station on 03 443 7272 to speak to an Officer, or to give information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Take care out there.

Posted Tuesday 5th February

5 February 2013

CRIMELINE: Constable Philip VINK

This week has been busy with car crashes and thefts from cars.

On Saturday we attended a serious motor vehicle crash near the Gates of Haast, four French tourists left the road with the driver breaking her arm. They were driving over a newly sealed stretch of road and were fortunate they didn't end up with a far more serious collision according to staff.

Later on Saturday we attended another vehicle crash in the Cardrona Valley when a local male lost control of his car and rolled, fortunately he and his occupants were uninjured. This was in a road works area. It seems that both these accidents were in areas of loose gravel and road works which is why we should take note of the signage and slow down.

On Sunday morning at 1.45 am two local males were arrested and dealt with for breaching the local liquor ban.

We also arrested a male who stole two cans of beer from a local store. This sort of offending costs us all and more shops are taking measures to catch thieves.

On Saturday night/Sunday morning there was a series of vehicles broken into in the Wänaka township, to date we are aware of 10 vehicles with various forms of forced entry and items stolen. Cash, fuel, radar detectors and golf clubs were targeted. Often the key with vehicle thefts is the temptation of what is visible to the criminals.

This level of theft is unusual in Wänaka and appears to be more than a random act. Please be vigilant when parking your car to not leave valuables inside, park in areas with good lighting if possible. If you hear or notice suspicious activity around motor vehicles please call 111 ASAP and then we have our best chance of catching the offender/s.

This week has seen schools back in action. As drivers this is a dangerous time, new and excited pupils are unpredictable. Slow down and expect them to run out or pop out at random. Roads such as Anderson Road, Aubrey Rd, Kings Drive and around the schools are the main areas to be extra careful. We often find the parents of school children are the ones we catch speeding especially when they are in a hurry to drop children off at school or get to work. The Wänaka Police are focussed on making the school areas as safe as possible and are likely to be in the area.

If you have any information pertaining to the incidents above please call the Station on 03 443 7272 to speak to an Officer, or to give information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

Posted Tuesday 29th January

30 January 2013

CRIMELINE:             Senior Constable Sean HURLEY

22/01/2013-               A 54 year old local female has been arrested for kicking and damaging a Pokie machine at the Water Bar.

24/01/2013-               A 52 year old local male is being investigated in relation to an incident of alleged disorderly at the Glendhu Bay Camp ground when alcohol was seized from his 16 year old son by the proprietor.

25/01/2013-               Local male warned for fraud after selling a car to a young tourist falsely claiming it had a warrant of fitness and registration. Such an action gives a poor impression to our visitors who are this town's life blood. The funds have                                  been recovered and returned to the victim.

25/01/2013-               Burglary reported at a shed at a Stone Street address.

26/01/2013-               24 year old local male arrested for Disorderly Behaviour outside Water Bar.

26/01/2013-               Police dealt with a motor vehicle collision on the West Wanaka Road.

26/01/2013-               A Honda VT250 motorcycle was stolen when left overnight for sale outside of the Department of Conservation its registered number was A2GKC.  Police would appreciate any information re this theft or sightings                                      of the vehicle being moved.

26/01/2013-               30 year old male from India dealt with for driving in dangerous manner on the Lindis Pass. His holiday plans are now ruined.  Please keep to the correct side of the road it is crucial for the safety of all road users.

27/01/2013-               17 year old male from Alexandra arrested for disorderly behaviour at Häwea.

27/01/2013-               Theft reported at the Wänaka Subway restaurant, we have video footage of these people thanks to the new camera system, if you read this hand your self in before a visit from Constable Barham.

Later this week sees the return of some of our children to school (Thank God!)  Please ensure you drive carefully around the school zones.

If you have any information pertaining to the incidents above please call the Station on 03 443 7272 to speak to an Officer, or to give information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111

Posted Wednesday 26th December

27 December 2012

CRIME LINE:   By Constable Mike Thomas

Wanaka Police are already in "holiday" mode and I don't mean sitting back relaxing.

Over the last week we have attended a variety of incidents, some which could have easily been avoided with a better approach to alcohol.

On the 18th and 19th two assault complaints were reported to Police, one committed at a local bar. Enquiries are continuing.

Police attended two separate non-injury vehicle crashes on the 20th and 21st and a 24 year old male was arrested on the 22nd for being unlawfully on a building.

The theft of a night's accommodation from a local camping ground was also resolved on the 22nd when Franz Josef Police caught up with the offenders. Vehicle registrations are an invaluable bit of information.

Christmas turned out to be a busy day with a domestic incident to deal with, a vehicle crash near Hawea and a call to assist ambulance when a male broke his leg diving into a local river.

Police and local SAR members also initiated a search for an overdue tramper and later recovered the body of a 38yr old German male near the Cascade saddle.

We would like to thank the SAR volunteers who gave up their Christmas to assist

Police. 

A burglary was reported at an Alberttown holiday home on the 26th and this is a timely reminder to make sure lock up your home and vehicles over the holiday period to avoid such incidents happening to you.

Our Dunedin Police reinforcements will start arriving on Saturday to help with the New Years Policing over the next week as numbers arrive in town for the big night.

We are expecting large numbers as usual and hoping we encounter a friendly atmosphere similar to last year's great crowd.

And finally if you are out to enjoy New Years please take care of your friends and family and drink responsibly. Enjoy the festivities and best of luck for 2013.

If you have any information pertaining to the incidents above please call the Station on 03 443 7272 to speak to an Officer, or to give information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Posted Tuesday 19th December

19 December 2012

CRIME LINE:   By Constable Peter Reed

On Wednesday the 12th of December a driver in a Subaru went to overtake a tractor. However whilst overtaking, the tractor driver did not see the Subaru and turned right into a paddock, this caused the trailer to collide with the Subaru. The occupants were lucky they did not go underneath the trailer, unfortunately their vehicle was damaged.

Last Thursday a prudent school bus driver found a young child lying in the road. He did the right thing and picked up the child and returned the child to its parent.  If the school bus driver was not on the ball it could have been a different outcome.

This is a festive job that makes me sad. Someone has climbed up the decorated Christmas tree on Ardmore Street and stolen the star at the top and replaced it with a cone. Well I will simply say to the offender, humbug to you, enjoy your star you selfish thief.

Wanaka police processed two drink drivers. One was on Saturday night and the second that concerns me was on Sunday morning at 10:54 am. This is another wake up call, if you had a big night the night before consider if you are fit to drive.

This coming week and over the Christmas period police are targeting drink driving and speed. A 4km/h speed tolerance will be in place on all      roads during this time.

Have a great week and a great Christmas from the Wanaka police.

If you have any information pertaining to the incidents above please call the Station on 03 443 7272 to speak to an Officer, or to give information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Posted Tuesday 11th December

11 December 2012

CRIME LINE:   Senior Constable D787 Sean Peter HURLEY.

1. 03/12/2012 -    Male trespassed from the Bullock Bar after returning intoxicated from the Races at Cromwell and behaving inappropriately.

1. 04/12/2012 -    Two large dogs were seen mauling and killing two pet lambs on Tapley Paddock. Please dog owners remain vigilant in ensuring your pets are not endangering live stock.

1. 05/12/2012 -    Vehicle seen damaging the paddocks near the Outlet motor camp. Police are trying to locate the owners and or user of a Holden Commodore maroon station wagon CPQ558.

1. 05/12/2012 -    Police dealt with a domestic dispute between a father and son in the Meadowstone area.

1. 06/12/2012 -    Police dealt with yet another vehicle accident on the Albert Town Bridge; please take extra care at this accident black spot.

1. 06/12/2012 -    A male was trespassed from an Albert Town address

1. 07/12/2012 -    Police received a report of local male using abusive gestures to his former in laws.

1. 09/12/2012 -    We have received a report of local swimmers boarding a moored boat please do not do so, if apprehended you may face charges in relation to your offending.

As we enter the build up to the festive season please take care to moderate your alcohol consumption and to take care of your friends and family if they fail in this regard to ensure that we do not start the New Year appearing in the District Court.

If you have any information pertaining to the incidents above please call the Station on 03 443 7272 to speak to an Officer, or to give information anonymously, call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Posted Tuesday 4th December

4 December 2012

CRIME LINE by Constable Martin Barham

What a relaxed attitude people of Wänaka have at the moment and I don't blame them.   

We have been busy dealing with community based issues over the last week by trying to resolve issues that have given people cause for concern, but are not generally seen as a police responsibility.  Our officers constantly offer help and advice to local people on a huge range of matters, or guide them to organisations that may be able to offer the help they need.

There's not much to tell you this week as far as crime goes, which can only be considered a good thing. 

During last Saturday night a number of letter boxes were damaged in Aeolus Place.  If you have any information about this please speak with Constable Mel Twyman.

I know staff at Mitre 10 have been busy with all the veg and fruit growers in the community.  Unfortunately we have been busy with a different type of 'grower' from Makarora, whom has been charged with drug cultivation offences.  Here is a quick reminder to all those thinking of growing cannabis.  It is illegal.  You will be found out and prosecuted.

One male driver was caught drink driving with a reading that was over twice the legal limit.  There is no excuse for this behaviour.  If you see anyone intending to drive drunk, be a mate and stop them.  The consequences could be devastating.

With the holiday season fast approaching police and coastguard will start to receive calls about people using the lake and rivers.  There are a number of rules that have been set to ensure everyone's safety.  To view these go online to www.maritimenz.govt.nz and download 'Safe Boating an Essential Guide'.

If you have any information about these or other matters please call the Station on 03 443 7272 to speak to an Officer, or to give information anonymously call Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.

Have a good week.