Romance scam warning
Romance may be in the air coming up to Valentine’s Day, but Westpac NZ is warning people that potential partners may be looking for more than a love match. The bank says romance scams rose by a third last year, with fraudsters often shifting chats off dating apps before requesting money. One customer lost $17,500 before realising her suitor was fake. Westpac urges daters to watch for red flags, avoid sending money, and contact the bank immediately if they suspect a scam.
Half pet owners won’t holiday without them
A pet survey conducted last November reveals the full extent of the sacrifices doting dog lovers and caring cat owners are prepared to make for their furry friends. The PD Insurance Human‑Pet Bond Survey of more than 1800 people found pets strongly influence major life choices: 29% are reluctant to give up working from home, 50.8% won’t holiday without them, 18.9% hesitate to move house and 16.1% avoid new flatmates. And 8.3% are less likely to have a baby because of their pets.
Pharmac feedback sought
Anyone wanting a say on which medicines and devices the Government drug‑buying agency funds can now give feedback on Pharmac’s plan to modernise the national Pharmaceutical Schedule. Pharmac says the 1994‑era schedule is outdated and needs to be clearer, easier to navigate, and faster to update. Proposed changes include shifting to a single online resource and simplifying funding rules. Public consultation is open until 5pm, March 13, 2026, via schedule@pharmac.govt.nz or an online form.
