We have received the below message from a local school regarding an incident in Isle Park this week. Not trying to scaremonger - but to get parents to re-educate their kids. We have had a few children hanging around the school grounds long after school...

"We would like you to be aware that there is always the possibility of an unknown person approaching children on the way to and from school, especially when walking.

Unfortunately, we have had an incident shared today. This matter has been passed on to police.

I encourage you to reinforce to your children the plans you have for them getting to and from school. Please include the adults they can expect to go with. It may be appropriate to remind them that walking together and on main routes/roads is best. Please remember we don’t want to frighten our tamariki but give them strategies that keep them safe, like entering a shop or crossing the road. Remember to tell them to be loud (not necessarily a scream, but shouting) and say No! Tell the person loudly that they don't know them. Please talk to your children about places they are safe and where they can play - at this time Isel Park may be somewhere that is enjoyed in groups and with family and other known adults instead of freely playing there. Always call the police when your children report such an event and thanks in advance for letting us know.

There are excellent resources for safety in the community on the police website."