Fake emails pretending to be Waitaki District Council

Published on 06 August 2026

We've had reports of scam emails going around that look like they're from Waitaki District Council. If you get one that mentions a "Recommendation letter from Waitaki District Council," please don't click on it.

What to do if you get one

Don't click, open, or reply. Leave any links and attachments alone, and don't hit "unsubscribe" either. That can just confirm to the scammer that your email address is active and being read.

Check who it's really from. Scam emails often use a name you trust, like "Waitaki District Council," but the actual email address behind it will be different. Sometimes it's just slightly off, like a misspelled version of our real domain. Look at the full address, not just the name shown.

Look out for the usual warning signs:

• Pressure to act fast ("do this today or else")
• Requests for your password, bank details, or a verification code
• Spelling or grammar that doesn't look right
• A generic greeting like "Dear Customer" instead of your name
• An unexpected invoice, refund, or delivery notice

Check independently if you're not sure. Don't use any contact details or links from the email itself. If you want to confirm whether Council really sent you something, call us on 03 433 0300 or email service@waitaki.govt.nz. Don't use any details from the suspicious email.

Report it, then delete it.

• Report it to us so we know it's happening — get in touch with Council on 03 433 0300 or service@waitaki.govt.nz.
• You can also report it to NCSC (the National Cyber Security Centre), using their reporting tool for individuals and small businesses: https://www.ncsc.govt.nz/report/business-and-individuals/
• Once reported, delete the email.

If you've already clicked a link or entered any details, don't worry about feeling embarrassed - just act quickly. Contact your bank or email provider straight away if you've shared financial or account details, and change any passwords you're worried about.