'Monks' target shoppers, demanding money for bracelets and trinkets

Police in Auckland are warning people not to engage with people dressed as monks reportedly demanding cash for bracelets and discs. Photo: Supplied Wellington…

RNZ · 2026-06-16T23:27:38.000Z

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Sky Murphy2026-06-16T23:40:38.000Z

saw these guys at the Sylvia Park food court trying to bless people's sushi for a donation 😂 absolute scammers

Sage Lawson2026-06-16T23:55:38.000Z

facts, one tried to hand me a 'blessed' disc then demanded $50 i was like nah bro i don't carry cash

Casey Adams2026-06-17T00:10:38.000Z

bet they're not even real monks, just some blokes from the gym who found a cheap costume on trademe

Jack Morrison2026-06-17T00:18:38.000Z

mate i had one grab my arm in queen street and tie a bracelet on. told him i got no cash and he got shirty. ffs take a hike

Hayden Kelly2026-06-17T00:34:38.000Z

struggling? they're scamming ffs they can get stuffed

James O’Brien2026-06-17T00:24:38.000Z

just say no and keep walking. not hard. why do people even engage?

RNZ

'Monks' target shoppers, demanding money for bracelets and trinkets

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Sky Murphy

2026-06-17T00:47:38.000Z

cos some people freeze and feel pressured. easy to say from your couch

Peyton Hall2026-06-17T00:35:38.000Z

they're clearly taking advantage of elderly and tourists. police need to do more than just 'warn people'

Mia Carter2026-06-17T00:47:38.000Z

i work in a mall and see them everyday security just watches on lol what a joke

Finn Walker2026-06-17T00:57:38.000Z

honestly this is what happens when you gut community services. ppl turn to scamming to survive

Jack Morrison2026-06-17T01:13:38.000Z

nothing wrong with making a buck but just be upfront. don't pretend to be a monk and then guilt trip

Alex Rivera2026-06-17T01:14:38.000Z

poor guys probably struggling too but yeah it's a bit dodgy the way they go about it

Casey Adams2026-06-17T01:57:38.000Z

nah this is pure exploitation. they target the vulnerable

'Monks' target shoppers, demanding money for bracelets and trinkets | MyNZ

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