Farmers concerned thieves are casing their properties from the sky
Rural residents fear there may be a link between rogue drones spotted at their properties and burglaries in the same areas.
A police spokesperson confirmed they were investigating reported drone incidents in rural North Canterbury.
Swannanoa contract milker Wayne Pritchard was not taking any chances though when he saw a drone hovering above a dairy shed on Monday night.
A second drone was spotted buzzing around the farm owner’s house, and three suspicious vehicles were seen nearby.
Pritchard and the farm owner reported the sightings and vehicle registration numbers to the police. Many other had residents reporting seeing drones on their properties in the area.
Under New Zealand drone privacy laws, operators must have the consent of the property owner or person in charge of the area they want to fly. That consent also enables them to fly above the neighbouring property.
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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76.9% Yes
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22.2% No
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1% Other - I'll share below
TV 1 last night.
Did any body watch A Remarkable Place to Die last night?
Did I miss something at the end as it went straight to the next program after the adds.with no finish
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.