Be aware of this WhatsApp scam
Police are warning people to be wary of a WhatsApp scam following an increase in reports in the Wellington District.
In this case scammers use WhatsApp to impersonate family members or friends in saying they need help and in particular need money.
Victims of this scam have received a message from an unknown number, claiming to be a loved one who has just lost their phone and got a replacement.
The scammer then attempts to obtain the victim’s credit card information.
These kinds of scams run constantly and while most people will not respond or buy into them, some people are more vulnerable.
We urge people to have conversations with vulnerable or elderly family members, to help ensure they are aware of the tactics often used by scammers and don't become victims.
If you are in doubt because a person is claiming to be a family member or friend, ask them a personal question – for example their date of birth, maiden name, pet name or name of a sibling.
Do not provide a password, credit card or bank details without making absolute sure, it is someone you know.
No legitimate agency will contact you and ask for your bank details or credit card out of the blue.
Police’s message on scams like this is simple – do not engage with anyone on the phone, and if you think you are being scammed report the incident immediately.
Anyone who believes they are a victim of a scam, in person, over the phone or online, should immediately report it to their bank, and then to their local Police.
Poll: As a customer, what do you think about automation?
The Press investigates the growing reliance on your unpaid labour.
Automation (or the “unpaid shift”) is often described as efficient ... but it tends to benefit employers more than consumers.
We want to know: What do you think about automation?
Are you for, or against?
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9.3% For. Self-service is less frustrating and convenient.
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43.6% I want to be able to choose.
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47.1% Against. I want to deal with people.
Poll: Are you as excited as we are for Te Matapihi’s grand reopening?
Wellington’s Te Awe Library on Brandon St will be closing its doors for good at 5 pm on March 1. It’s been the city’s largest temporary library, and now it’s making way for the exciting return of Te Matapihi Central Library!
We want to know: Are you as excited as we are for Te Matapihi’s grand reopening?
Want all the details? The Post has everything you need to know.
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46.1% Yes
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53.9% No
Heads up – upcoming gas network works
Copied from the Tawa Business Group Incorporated Facebook page: Powerco Limited, which owns and operates the natural gas network in our area, will be carrying out essential upgrade works along Main Road, Tawa, over the coming weeks as part of their ongoing improvement programme.
🔧 What’s happening? Powerco’s Tier 1 contractor, Downer New Zealand – Energy, will be building a new District Regulator Station (DRS) to replace an older, less efficient station. This will also involve installing new gas mains to connect the new station into the local gas network.
📅 Timing
Exploratory works begin: from 9 February 2026
Main works period: 9 February – 31 March 2026
Road impacts to note:
o From 23–28 February, there will be partial and full road closures (to be confirmed closer to the time).
o During partial closures, there will be no entry into Redwood Ave from Main Road (exit only).
🚦 Traffic & access
Temporary traffic management will be in place at various times. Some areas will be fenced off for safety, and trenches will be bridged with composite vehicle plates. Access for residents and businesses will be maintained throughout the works.
🗺️ Where will work happen? The yellow lines on the map show the areas where trenches will be dug for the new gas mains.
Thanks for your patience while this important infrastructure upgrade is carried out – we’ll share more details as they’re confirmed.
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