Whitianga Police have received several enquires from people recently who have received suspect cheques and unsolicited internet contacts.

In the latest s Whitianga Police Report senior sergeant Alfred ‘John' Taaka says the first thing people should remember is to not give out their account details to anyone – especially online.

'Some examples of scams are people sending you a cheque to bank into your account for more than what you agreed then simply saying transfer the extra back to them,” he explains.

'What usually happens it that you transfer money without the cheque being honoured and when it isn't you're out of pocket. If you aren't sure, google it!”

To learn more about popular scams and ways to protect yourself Alfred recommends you check out the Consumer Protection website at: www.consumerprotection.govt.nz/scams

ARRESTS

While there were no arrests to speak of, police handed out several warnings for drunken behaviour.

Alfred says the festival in Whitianga during the long weekend saw many intoxicated people wandering about the town, crossing roads, exiting venues and walking home.

'What is evident is intoxicated people don't always react as you would expect. Examples like crossing the road in front of vehicles.

'Please look after your friends and family when `out on the town`. Plan B4 you Party to ensure your safety.”

OCCURRENCES

Alfred says there are no significant matters to report, and while there were some domestic violence incidents the number was less than what occurred last week.

'One couple had an argument and the Police were not called. They talked it through the next day however police followed up to make sure everything was ok. A common denominator again was alcohol,” says Alfred.

TRAFFIC

On the roads, Alfred says there's been plenty of traffic in and around Whitianga due to the Queen's Birthday long weekend and several festivals that have taken place recently.

And with the arrival of winter, he is also calling on local motorists to take extra care when out on the roads.

'Our roads are often slippery and wet, in this colder weather there are places on the peninsular where black ice develops.

'Be mindful on cold wet mornings that ice on corners will cause accidents especially when you are rushing to work or dropping the kids off at school.”

Alfred is also reminding motorists that vehicle compliance is 'your responsibility” and to help make sure you car is fit for the road he offers up the handy acronym ‘TWIRL' – Tyres; Windscreens, Wipers and Mirrors; Indicators; Rust; and Lights.

He says motorists need to make sure their tyres are good for the roads, that their cars are free of rust, and that their windscreens, wipers, mirrors, indicators and lights all work and that motorists use them.

'Remember the driver responsible for the vehicle. You could be fined $150,” says Alfred.