Police warn Kiwis over alleged ‘fake monk’ scam popping up across NZ

A strange alleged scam is popping up in multiple parts of the country, with reports of people dressed as monks asking for money.

According to RNZ, Wellington shoppers have been left confused after being approached by people in monk-inspired robes, handing out bracelets, then asking for payment.

Some members of the public have told the outlet the interactions feel strange, with others describing them as aggressive or confrontational.

One person took to Reddit to warn others after claiming the alleged scam had made its way to Auckland’s streets.

“I saw old mate at Wynyard Qtr on Sunday,” the poster wrote. “He had just put a bracelet on someone and was asking for money, but the receiver of the bracelet said he didn’t carry cash.”

“Old mate took the bracelet back and disappeared. I circled back around, and he was nowhere to be seen. I wonder if I scared him off when I exclaimed, ‘It’s a scam, mate!’ to his mark.”

Comments under the post suggest the scam has been doing the rounds “for decades”.

Back in 2025, NZ Herald reported on an alleged Chinese syndicate recruiting fake charity “monks” to target pedestrians in Auckland.

The journalist behind the report from a decade ago, Lincoln Tan, also shared photos online after spotting the group himself.

Last week, he wrote of Facebook, "True monks will never approach you, demand a donation, or sell you anything. Walk away!"

Others online are also warning of alleged recent sightings in Tāmaki Makaura, with locations including LynnMall car park, Milford shops car park, Westgate, Victoria Park and Wynyard Quarter all mentioned.

Now, police in Auckland are warning the public not to engage with the alleged scammers.

“Auckland Central Police are aware of some media reports concerning a scam re-emerging involving people dressed as monks,” they said. “There is some suggestion that intimidatory behaviour is also being directed at members of the public in the CBD.”

While no official reports have been made, police are urging the public to report any incidents as soon as possible.

“It’s very important that anyone reports being approached in these circumstances to police as soon as you are able to,” they said.

“If you are approached by someone dressed as a monk and are being handed bracelets and demanded to hand over cash, please do not engage.”

And maybe keep an eye out for anyone else who might be approached, too!