Horowhenua District Neighbourhood Support Inc

Horowhenua District Neighbourhood Support aims to create safe, resilient and connected communities.

Most people are aware of the local Neighbourhood Support groups who keep an eye on neighbouring properties but that is just the tip of the iceberg. When recent tornados and flooding affected Horowhenua, Neighbourhood Support provided support and information for those left homeless, the elderly and those on their own or with small children.

Neighbourhood Support has been running for 21 years in Horowhenua. More than 6000 households from Te Horo to Himatangi are members. It costs nothing to join, and a well connected community helps keep us all safe.

Working alongside NZ Police and other partners, Neighbourhood Support aims to improve safety and preparedness for emergencies. A current concern is the number of motor vehicles being stolen and interfered with in our area. Horowhenua Neighbourhood Support coordinator Deborah Campbell said people can do a lot to make sure their vehicle isn’t targeted.

“Use wheel clamps or steering wheel locks if you have them, park under lighting, fit an alarm, these thieves don’t want to be noticed,” Deborah said. “Don’t leave valuable items where they’re visible enticing these people. Older vehicles are often easier to enter and ‘hot wire’ than more modern ones.”

Deborah puts out a free on-line newsletter updating criminal activity in the area and support packs are available for anyone wanting to start or join Neighbourhood Support. She would love to see more groups in rural area’s like Ohau and Manakau as fuel thefts from rural vehicles is becoming more common.