Security patrols 7 days aweek
Zero-tolerance approach to antisocial behaviour in Rotorua CBD
Security patrols in the Rotorua CBD will operate seven days a week during the summer. Rotorua mayor Steve Chadwick said the council had a zerotolerance approach to anti-social behaviour.
“It’s why we introduced safety patrols two summers ago with the police and, as we did the past two summers, we are increasing patrols and CCTV monitoring again this holiday period, with a car patrol also being added.”
Chadwick said people should be safe in the inner city.
“We share concerns raised by our business community and residents about inner-city safety and while problems lessened during the lockdown, we know concerns have increased again.
“That’s why we are putting more resources into safety patrols and continue to work closely with police, who are also patrolling the CBD.”
Watchdog Security chief executive Brett Wilson said the patrols already had “a track record of success”.
He said patrols would be working with CCTV camera operators and with police.
His crew would work the day shift and VR Security was on the night shift.
“We have all done it before and will be focusing on the hotspots.”
Rotorua area police commander Phillip Taikato said police have a close and productive working relationship with the council, security providers and other community partners.
“We work together to address, deter and prevent safety issues in the CBD.”
Police also provide help monitor the council’s CCTV cameras when required, he said.
Meanwhile, police have increased foot and vehicle patrols in the Rotorua CBD over summer.