We've recently had a couple of new members advertise gear for sale and at least two forum members have paid for goods they never received. Those scammers appear to be the same guy so their accounts have been disabled and I understand the police are involved.

Beware of new members, especially if there are no pics or any deal that doesn't involve cash on pick up.

The scammers appeared very genuine  so please be careful!

If anyone wants an item viewed in Auckland I am happy to go and look at it for you and make sure it exists/look the dude in the eye/remind them I now know where they live.

BigMike wrote: If anyone wants an item viewed in Auckland I am happy to go and look at it for you and make sure it exists/look the dude in the eye/remind them I now know where they live.

what was the gear Smudge? wasn't any of the gear pinched from Marine Deals ?

Did these scams involve NZ bank transfers?  I've always been wary of either offshore accounts or paypal type transfers but thought an NZ bank transfer was relatively safe (or at least traceable by the Police).

Kevin.S wrote: Did these scams involve NZ bank transfers?  I've always been wary of either offshore accounts or paypal type transfers but thought an NZ bank transfer was relatively safe (or at least traceable by the Police).

Getting scammed really bites. Happened to me on ebay buying a watch, thankfully they have good buyers protection insurance. Just annoying to go through procedures to resolve. Hopefully these scum get caught

Did you get stung for those two used Goats as well Smudge... geeze you live and learn huh

Just added a bit to your post at the beginning Smudge. There's very little we can do in the way of specific controls but your bank's fraud squad will do their best track down anyone who is scamming like this. Best option is to collect the goods and hand over the cash at the same time or get someone to do it on your behalf if it's not a local seller. 

I'm happy to do so along the Northern east coast  mangonui, taipa and kaitaia..
Boat are my specialty but all fishing gear.. also .
I have always thought there was honour and trust among fishnet fishos  ..
There will always be those that are too lazy to earn their own monies and find it easier to scam those who work hard for their bucks..  I spose its best beware of those with few postings and who have recently joined the site..  if it seems too good to be true it normally is... use your noggin and as mentioned, goods for cash is best served with those folk.. unless a regular on fishnet..