Question 1

What is the "Fergburger Queue Distraction Theft" scam in Queenstown?

Accepted Answer

The famous long queue outside Fergburger and busy areas of the Queenstown waterfront attract opportunistic pickpockets who target tourists distracted by their phones while waiting. Keep phones in a front pocket and bags zipped while standing in queues. Stay aware of your surroundings in tourist crowd areas.

Question 2

What is the "Charity Clipboard Scam Near Queenstown Gardens" scam in Queenstown?

Accepted Answer

Individuals approach tourists walking near Queenstown Gardens and along the lakefront promenade asking them to sign a petition for environmental conservation or wildlife protection causes relevant to New Zealand. After the signature is obtained, the collector pivots immediately to a request for cash or credit card donations, often implying the signature constitutes an automatic pledge. These operations have no connection to registered New Zealand charities and the funds collected go directly to the individuals running the scheme. Politely decline to stop for clipboard petitions near tourist areas. In New Zealand, legitimate registered charities solicit funds through official channels, not street collections on tourist promenades. If you want to support a cause, search for it directly online through the Charities Register at charities.govt.nz.

Street Scams in Queenstown

Fergburger Queue Distraction Theft

Charity Clipboard Scam Near Queenstown Gardens

Experienced a scam here?