Boat diesel theft
Mooring owners want security and peace of mind. While it is our personal responsibility to deal with seagull poo, security should be viewed as the collective responsibility of all boaties who occupy a mooring.
An earlier request was made to the Harbourmaster for contact details of mooring licensees. On the grounds of confidentiality, this request was declined. It has also been proposed the Police may wish to become involved, but while Covid - 19 is with us, I suggest they have bigger fish to fry.
Although uninvited entry onto moored boats is spasmodic, when it does occur it is disturbing for the boating community. The two recently reported cases of diesel burglary have reignited the need for greater awareness and action by the boating community.
To this end, I have instigated the establishment of a telephone tree to include details of all who are tied to a mooring. It will work in the same manner as ‘Neighbourhood Support’. All those who occupy a mooring are invited to submit personal and boat details to hugh.heather.reynolds@gmail.com. Four local residents, who overlook the entire Ōmokoroa mooring area, have volunteered to keep watch and report any unusual activity. This can then be relayed to the boat owner. A request has also been extended to the wider community to report any suspicious behaviour.
Not all owners of moored boats live on the peninsula. If you know any of them, please pass this message on.
The gratifying number of recent responses has identified the need and willingness of the boating community. It is hoped this action will also act as a deterrent.
As a postscript, thanks to all those people living along The Esplanade who keep watch over our dinghies.