Police patrols in Auckland’s north-west
Police are continuing to keep an eye out for suspicious activity in the small hours around the north-west of Auckland.
In the past two nights, patrols have picked up suspicious vehicles travelling into the Helensville township.
Waitematā North Relieving Area Commander, Senior Sergeant Roger Small says there have been increases in reports of dishonesty offences and vehicle crime in some rural communities. He says “We have seen reports in recent weeks across the Helensville, Kumeū and Huapai areas involving stolen vehicles or property being stolen from vehicles,”
“We’re actively following up these reports and as part of this response we have patrolling in place around the times when this offending is happening.”
Just before 2am, one of the patrols observed a vehicle with numerous occupants travelling toward Helensville on State Highway 16.
“The vehicle was signalled to stop, but on seeing the red and blue lights accelerated away at a very high speed,” Senior Sergeant Small says. “Another unit was able to successfully deploy spikes after the vehicle entered the Helensville township, and the vehicle came to a stop.”
All occupants, including the 17-year-old-driver, were taken into custody without further incident.
“We’re reminding the community that we are out there patrolling, and if you are ever signalled to stop by Police you should always stop, otherwise you are committing an offence.”
This follows another incident at around 2.18am on 8 January, where a vehicle was seen by a patrol being driven at speed through roadworks near Helensville.
“Due to the driver’s excessive speed, the vehicle was not pursued but it was later seen travelling through the township toward Wainui,” Senior Sergeant Small says. “Follow up enquiries are being made with the vehicle’s registered owner as to who was driving the vehicle at the time.”
Today’s reminder follows a challenge issued by Police in the lead up to the New Year for locals to make their vehicles less attractive.
“We’re asking the locals to keep it up, making sure their vehicle is secured and all their valuables are taken out when it’s not in use,” Senior Sergeant Small says. “Police are still actively following up these reports and we ask that the community remains aware of the issue. “Keep an eye out for suspicious activity in your area, and if you see something untoward let us know as soon as possible.”
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.
Poll: When should the tree go up? 🎄
From what we've heard, some Christmas trees are already being assembled and decorated.
What are your thoughts on the best time to get your Christmas tree up?
-
5.1% Second half of November
-
44.3% 1st December
-
16.8% A week before Christmas
-
32.5% Whenever you wish
-
1.3% Other - I'll share below
Connect For Women
🌟 Join Us in 2025! 🌟
Next year we will continue meeting three times per month, giving you plenty of opportunities to connect with other women and fit Connect For Women into your schedule! 🗓️💬
We hope you’ll intentionally carve out some time just for you - to relax, socially network, and be inspired in a welcoming and supportive environment.
Whether it’s your first time or you’re returning, we’d love to see you! 💖
Make 2025 the year you invest in you.
**************************************
🎁 Share the Joy This Christmas! 🎁
This festive season, let's make it special for children in our community. If you'd like to donate a new gift for a child, we would be honored to pick it up and deliver it to the Hibiscus Coast Salvation Army. 🎄✨
They’ll be supporting 80 local families in need this Christmas, and your thoughtful contribution could brighten a child’s holiday with joy and hope. 💝
Thank you for spreading the spirit of giving—together, we can make a difference. 💚
#TimeForYou #WomenSupportingWomen #CommunityAndConnection