At ONE NETWORK WELLINGTON LIVE, we thrive on cracking stories that are true, local, and downright mental. Today, we’re diving into a tale that’s got Wellington in a tizz: a stolen boat, a sketchy Marketplace deal, and a chase that’s left everyone stunned. This is the sort of yarn that makes you chuckle, gasp, and double-check your own listings. So, strap in for a mad dash through Lower Hutt’s Nae Nae, where a $54,000 boat kicked off a drama for the ages.

It all began when Dave, a Wellington bloke, woke to find his pride and joy—a shiny $54,000 fishing boat—pinched from his driveway. Devastated, he did what any clever Kiwi would: he hit up Facebook Marketplace. Dave posted a heartfelt plea, offering a $1,000 reward for any clue to his boat’s whereabouts. “I just want it back,” he told us, voice wobbling. Within hours, his post went viral, with shares, comments, and tips pouring in. But then, things took a bizarre turn.

A stranger messaged Dave, claiming they’d clocked his boat in Nae Nae, Lower Hutt. This “Mystery Mate” sent a fuzzy photo showing what seemed like Dave’s boat stashed in a rough backyard. Thrilled but wary, Dave asked for more info. Mystery Mate’s reply was sharp: “Chuck $1,000 into my account, and I’ll give you the exact spot.” Red flags waved. Was this a genuine tip or a crafty con? Dave wasn’t sure, but he wasn’t about to fling cash at a random.

Instead, he rang the police, who told him to hold tight. Meanwhile, the Marketplace post kept snowballing, with locals jumping in. Some offered to scour Nae Nae themselves, while others cautioned Dave about Marketplace scams. One joker commented, “Mate, that boat’s probably off to Fiji!” But Dave stayed optimistic. He updated his post, asking Mystery Mate to meet face-to-face or send better proof. The response? Dead silence. For two days, zilch. Then, suddenly, Mystery Mate piped up: “Last chance. Cash first, then address.”

By now, Dave’s saga had taken over Wellington’s social media. We got stuck into the drama, talking to locals and Marketplace users. Scams like this aren’t uncommon, we found. Crooks often nick big items like boats or cars, then use fake “finders” to milk rewards. But Dave’s case felt unique. The blurry photo showed decals matching his boat’s design. Could Mystery Mate actually be legit?

Not one to sit idle, Dave and a pal decided to play detective. They cruised to Nae Nae, armed with the vague snap and a gut feeling. After hours of circling, they hit gold: Dave’s boat, tucked behind a shabby garage. Ecstatic, Dave called the cops, who rolled in and confirmed it was his. The boat was a bit bashed but safe. Yet, the plot twisted. The homeowner swore they’d bought it “fair and square” on Marketplace for a dodgy low price. The police are now digging deeper, but Mystery Mate has scarpered, leaving no trace.

Dave’s boat is home, but the $1,000 reward stays unclaimed. “I’m just chuffed it’s done,” he said, beaming. His tale has set Wellington’s online world alight, with hundreds of comments on our Marketplace and social pages. Locals are dubbing it “the Nae Nae Boat Caper,” and it’s clear why. It’s got theft, suspense, a shady deal, and a cracking ending. Plus, it’s a nudge to stay sharp on platforms like Marketplace, where deals and dodgy offers often mix.

We’re all about stories that get Wellington talking and keep our community tight. Dave’s adventure shows why our Marketplace isn’t just for buying and selling—it’s a hub where wild stuff unfolds. So, next time you’re scrolling, watch out for the next big tale. Who knows? Your story might be the one we’re spinning tomorrow.