Police move forward to lay their wreath on Anzac Day 2026.
It was great to see such a strong turnout at the Anzac Civic Services on Saturday morning. Waipā continues to show impressive community spirit and civic pride.
Deb Hann
On Tuesday morning, Strategic Traffic Senior Constable Walker and Constable McDermott took part in a safety initiative on Victoria Street, Cambridge, alongside Waipā District Council. The focus was on promoting ‘Lights on Bikes’ for visibility and safety. Free front and rear bike lights were handed out. They are ideal for helping our tamariki stay visible during the winter months and the children were very appreciative.
Staying with the topic of bicycles, I’ve been asked to highlight the importance of using cycle lanes where they are available. For example, when children are travelling from the high-level bridge to Cambridge Primary or Cambridge Middle School, the purpose-built cycleway offers a much safer option by providing separation from traffic. A reminder too that helmets are legally required and play a significant role in reducing injury if a crash occurs.
Cyclists riding in Cambridge. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
We also continue to receive feedback about the speed of e‑scooters travelling through Cambridge. As mentioned previously, e‑scooters are capable of high speeds, and with any vehicle, increased speed brings increased risk. While helmets are not currently a legal requirement for e‑scooters, the potential for serious injury is high, arguably higher than on a bicycle. I strongly recommend wearing one. As when riding a bike, a helmet hanging from the handlebars offers no protection at all.
Parents, please talk to your children about safe riding if they have an e‑scooter. They should be travelling at low speeds through the CBD and adjusting their speed to suit conditions. Swerving around pedestrians can cause unnecessary alarm and risk, especially for older members of our community. Even when the route ahead appears clear, someone may step out of a shop, driveway or come around a corner unexpectedly.
Under the Land Transport Act 1998, any person aged 15 or over who operates a vehicle—including some high‑powered e‑scooters—in a manner likely to cause injury or annoyance to any person, property, or animal may face a fine of $600. This is worth keeping in mind.
Finally, on the traffic topic, over the past week, Cambridge staff dealt with four drivers with excess breath alcohol and two traffic crashes. Te Awamutu staff also dealt with two drivers with excess breath alcohol and two crashes. If you are going to drink, then plan ahead and arrange a ride home.
Police make their way into the wreath laying ceremony on Anzac Day 2026. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
Police move forward to lay their wreath on Anzac Day 2026. Photo: Mary Anne Gill
