Be aware of text messages that are Scams
So how does the scam work?
The message will look like it comes from a legitimate New Zealand agency like Waka Kotahi (NZ Transport Agency), NZ Post, Inland Revenue, NZ Police or a Bank. It will often be sent by a number with either a 64 or 61 prefix at the beginning - country codes from New Zealand and Australia.
It will encourage you to click on a link and pay a bill or toll, sometimes to collect a cash prize.
Advice for dealing with scams
• Not all messages will look the same, as scammers change their wording over time.
• Do not engage with or click any links before you know a message is genuine.
• To check if a message is genuine, check directly with the people it came from. Go to the organisation’s website or check your online account directly.
• Scam messages commonly contain bad or irregular spelling and grammar. Use this as your first sign that this could be a scam.
• Never provide any card or personal details if you do click a bad link.
• If you have paid money already, speak to your bank as soon as possible and let them know what’s happened.
Poll: Do you think banning gang patches is reasonable?
With the government cracking down on gangs, it is now illegal for gang members to display their insignia in public places whether through clothing or their property.
This means arrests can be made if these patches are worn in places like restaurants, shops, on public transport or ferries, and on airplanes. Arrests were made recently at a funeral.
Do you think this ban is reasonable?
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76.3% Yes
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22.3% No
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1.4% Other - I'll share below
What's your favourite recipe for courgettes?
Kia ora neighbours. If you've got a family recipe for courgettes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our January 2025 issue.
Wilding St, ST MARTINS (multiple houses in street). Sat 30/11/2024. 8.30am (no earlier)
Wilding St, ST MARTINS. A few households in the street are holding garage sales today. Signs out at 8.30am (respectfully no earlier please). Between the households there is Furniture, Sleepyhead Matrix double BED (excel cond), household items, electricals, bric-a-brac, FRUIT Trees & BERRIES plants, unwanted gifts, new items (suitable presents), clothing, books etc... Between the households (4x confirmed so far) too much to mention. Something for everyone. Cancelled if raining but spit & wind ok!