Rising youth crime and gang violence, a problem in Wainuiomata
Concerns about the rise of youth crime, gang violence and lack of police visibility were aired at a public meeting in Wainuiomata on Monday night.
About 65 members of the community gathered for an open forum-style meeting at the Louise Bilderbeck Hall.
Senior sergeant Brad Allen said gangs offered youth money, kudos and power.
“It’s not just an issue that’s going to be solved at this meeting, it’s a long-term thing,” Allen said, referring to a lack of activities for youth in the area.
Wainuiomata Trail Park president Dirk Skagen said there had been a number of recent incidents “endangering the safety of park users”.
When people approached the police or council previously, they did not respond with urgency, he said.
Poll: If we want to reduce speeding, what do you think actually changes driver behaviour? 🛻🚨🚓
In the Post's article on speeding penalties, the question is asked whether speeding fines are truly about road safety, or are they just a way to boost revenue for the Crown?
What do you think? Should speeding motorists receive speeding fines or demerit points?
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30.8% The sting of a fine (Money talks!)
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69.2% The threat of demerit points (Nobody wants to lose their license!)
Poll: Are you still heading to your local for your caffeine fix, or has the $$ changed your habits? ☕
Wellington’s identity is built on its cafe culture, but with costs climbing, that culture is under pressure. We’ve seen the headlines about recent closures, and it’s a tough pill to swallow along with a $6+ coffee.
We all want our favourite spots to stay open, but we also have to balance our own budgets ⚖️
We want to know: How are you handling the "coffee math" in 2026? Are you still heading to your local for a chat and a caffeine fix, or has the cost of living changed your habits?
Keen to read more about "coffee math"? The Post has you covered.
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45.7% I avoid spending money on coffee
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44.6% I still indulge at my local cafe
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9.7% Irrelevant - coffee is not for me
Share your favourite main crop potato recipe and win a copy of our mag!
Love potatoes? We will give away free copies of the May 2026 issue to readers whose potato recipes are used in our magazine. To be in the running, make sure you email your family's favourite way to enjoy potatoes: mailbox@nzgardener.co.nz, by March 1, 2026.
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