COVID-19: Phone a friend who isn’t online
Western Waikato Emergency Operating Centre controller David Simes says vulnerable people who are not online may be missing out on key information.
Many local newspapers have stopped publishing due to the new delivery restrictions for COVID-19 but information continues to be shared digitally, or via radio and tv stations.
Residents in Waipa, Otorohanga and Te Kuiti who can access latest information are being asked to share this with people who may not be set up or able to get information online otherwise.
“Some of our most vulnerable people may be missing out on key information such as how to get help or who to call for household goods or services,” Simes said.
“With the close of local community newspapers, we’re asking people to please share the latest information with people you know may not be able to get it by otherwise.”
Accurate information sharing is also key with Simes noting people who are keeping other informed to ensure that the information sharing is accurate.
“Civil defence messages are shared through local council social media pages and websites so we encourage you to follow their pages if you can.”
“Before sharing, make sure you’ve verified the information first. Check out the www.covid19.govt.nz... or www.health.govt.nz... websites.”
A Waikato Welfare Call Centre was set up yesterday for people to gain assistance with household goods and services. The number to phone is 0800 800 405.
Callers will go through a needs assessment and will be referred to the person’s local emergency operating centre who will be in touch to coordinate assistance.
People sharing information should abide by COVID-19 guidelines for physical distancing and are encouraged to phone to relay information where possible.
Scam Alert: Bank cold calls
ASB is warning customers about reports of cold calls from scammers claiming to be from ASB. These scammers are trying to obtain personal information, including usernames, dates of birth, and verification codes sent to your mobile phone.
🛡️ The "Caller Check" Test
If you get a call from someone claiming to be from ASB and you’re unsure, just ask them for a Caller Check. You will then be able to verify the call through the app.
Remember, banks will:
❌ Never ask for your banking passwords, PINs, or verification codes
❌ Never need to know your full credit card number – especially the CVC
❌ Never ask you to download software or remotely access your device
❌ Never ask you to purchase gift cards or transfer funds.
If you have received a phone call and think your account has been compromised, call ASB on 0800 ASB FRAUD (0800 272 372), or visit your local branch.
🧩😏 Riddle me this, Neighbours…
I am an odd number. Take away a letter and I become even. What number am I?
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Some Choice News!
DOC is rolling out a new tool to help figure out what to tackle first when it comes to protecting our threatened species and the things putting them at risk.
Why does this matter? As Nikki Macdonald from The Post points out, we’re a country with around 4,400 threatened species. With limited time and funding, conservation has always meant making tough calls about what gets attention first.
For the first time, DOC has put real numbers around what it would take to do everything needed to properly safeguard our unique natural environment. The new BioInvest tool shows the scale of the challenge: 310,177 actions across 28,007 sites.
Now that we can see the full picture, it brings the big question into focus: how much do we, as Kiwis, truly value protecting nature — and what are we prepared to invest to make it happen?
We hope this brings a smile!
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