Community rallies to fight crime
Kaikohe residents got to air their concerns about crime at a public meeting.
About 200 people turned out to the May 10 event to put questions to police around the number of officers patrolling the area, vandalism and other crime related issues.
Organiser Tony Taylor says one of the main problems in town are the kids roaming around vandalising properties and tagging.
‘‘This is the first of a few meetings and the community has really gotten behind it.
‘‘It’s up to all of us to make a difference.’’
In 2015 there were 68 instances of assault, sexual assault and robberies in a public place in Kaikohe, according to Statistics New Zealand.
Earlier this month, a 48-yearold man was arrested following a serious assault that left the victim in a critical condition.
Kaikohe community stalwart Mike Shaw says he heard a lot of positive comments from the meeting.
The Kaikohe community is proactive about improving, he says.
Taylor launched the Kaikohe Community Watch facebook group around three and a half years ago and it has now grown to over 4000 members.
People have passed on crime related information via the Facebook page, which Taylor can take to police to assist with their investigations.
A community patrol, with a designated vehicle, works closely with police and works shifts in the evenings to provide additional support in the area.
Sergeant Brian Swann says the community watch group can report any issues they observe and communicate with police about where to attend.
People can also volunteer at the front counter of the police station, which can help speed up the process of following up a complaint, says Swann.
‘‘The meeting was very positive, with a good turnout.
‘‘The big part is to build trust and for people to know that we are accessible.’’
Just over 4000 people reside in the Kaikohe area, according to Statistics New Zealand.
❚ What do you think about crime in Kaikohe? Email us your experience jenny.ling@fairfaxmedia.co.nz or comment on Neighbourly.