Police On the Beat
The King Country region experienced significant disruption last week due to heavy rainfall, which led to multiple road closures caused by slips and flooding.
King Country police extend their sincere appreciation to the local council, fire service, Civil Defence, and other support agencies for their coordinated efforts in assisting the community during this time.
Chris Aspin
These events highlight the importance of community connection and resilience. In response, steps are being taken to reestablish Neighbourhood Support across the King Country. This initiative is designed to strengthen community ties, improve safety, and ensure residents remain informed and supported, particularly during emergencies.
I was pleased to attend the Rangatahi in Action Day held at the Gallagher Centre in Te Kuiti. Despite adverse weather conditions forcing the cancellation of the second day, the event was a success. It was encouraging to see students from various schools come together with a positive mindset, apply themselves and participate in the day’s activities.
During the week, Police responded to a crash on Carroll Street in Te Kuiti involving a vehicle towing a trailer that collided with a power pole. The impact brought down power lines, resulting in power outages across several homes. The driver, a 17-year-old male, was found to be over five times the youth legal breath alcohol limit. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. This incident serves as a reminder of the serious consequences of impaired driving and the importance of responsible behaviour on our roads.
In Ōtorohanga police arrested a 31-year-old male in connection with family harm assaults that occurred earlier in the month. He is scheduled to appear in court this week. Police remain committed to addressing family harm and supporting affected individuals and whānau.
Staff are looking into a wilful damage incident that took place at the Te Kuiti college where several windows were smashed over the weekend.
Police are also investigating a wilful damage incident at the Ōtorohanga Cemetery, where a vehicle was deliberately driven into a mausoleum, causing structural damage. Acts like these can be distressing for the community, and police urge anyone with information to contact staff at the Ōtorohanga or Te Kuiti Police stations.
As always, we continue to encourage the community to report any suspicious activity and to look out for one another.
Police car. Photo: Pixabay
