PR for burst pipes cost ratepayers $350,000
Ratepayers have forked out more than $350,000 on public relations experts hired by Wellington Water in the past year to manage major network failures.
Wellington Water spent spent $354,621 on media management contractors between November 2019 and December 2020.
Upper Hutt Mayor Wayne Guppy was also disappointed with the figure, saying the money spent on external consultants was “outrageous”.
A Wellington Water spokesperson said the organisation had a small communications team of three people covering community engagement, marketing and digital communications, and general communications.
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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.
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