Whangārei residents urged to check their backyards for missing man
Kia ora neighbours, Whangārei residents have been asked to check their backyards as the search for a man missing since Wednesday continues.
Brian Bench, 72, was reported missing to Northland police after last being at an address on Memorial Drive, near Riverside Drive, on Wednesday night.
Northland police said there had been a possible sighting of Bench in the Whangārei CBD area around 7am on Thursday.
“Police continue to be concerned for Brian's welfare and our search effort remains ongoing,” a police spokesperson said.
“We would like to thank those people who have called us so far. We continue to urge anyone who sees Brian to call 111.”
Anyone with information about possible sightings can also contact police on 105, quoting file number 210708/9824.
What's your favourite tomato recipe?
Kia ora neighbours. We know your tomato plants are still growing, but we're looking ahead to the harvest already! If you've got a family recipe for tomatoes, we'd love to see it and maybe publish it in our magazine to share with our readers. Send your recipe to mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, and if we use it in the mag, you will receive a free copy of our February 2025 issue.
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:
🔍 Unrealistic offers or promises of easy money that are too good to be true
🔍 Pressure tactics: Scammers may rush or threaten you to act immediately.
🔍 Requests for personal info: Be cautious if you’re asked for bank details, passwords, or sensitive information.
🔍 Unusual payment methods like gift cards, cryptocurrency, or wire transfers.
🔍 Unverified contacts: Emails, calls, or messages from unknown or suspicious sources.
How to protect yourself:
✅ Stop and think before sharing personal details or making payments.
✅ Don't click on any links until you know that it is safe.
✅ Verify the source: Contact the organisation directly using official channels.
✅ If something’s not right, it's OK to hang up, walk away, ignore it and move on.
If you wish to report a scam, contact Police on 105 or report it online via 105.police.govt.nz/use-105.
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