Mayor's safety funding flip-flop
After promising to support increased funding for a Courtenay Place safety initiative, Wellington Mayor Andy Foster did a U-turn when costs went up by $15,000.
The funding was for Take 10, a group that helps drunk people stay out of trouble.
On Sunday, Foster told Stuff he supported providing funding. On Wednesday, however, he voted against it.
He said the proposed cost had risen by $15,000 to $95,000 and he was no longer prepared to support it.
His no vote was not enough to stop the funding, which the majority of councillors supported.
Councillor Fleur Fitzsimons, who chaired the grants committee, voted in favour of the increased funding.
“The extension of Take 10 to Friday nights is one step towards reducing alcohol-related harm and violence on Courtenay Place,” she said.
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Warnings about scams
This Fraud Awareness Week, we’re reminding everyone to stay sharp and look out for the warning signs of scams to stop them before they start.
Here’s what to watch out for:
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🔍 Unverified contacts: Emails, calls, or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.
How to protect yourself:
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If you wish to report a scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online via 105.police.govt.nz/use-105.