Several latest-generation CCTV cameras have been installed and will be trialled in Wairoa township to boost public safety.

Wairoa District Council Chief Executive Officer, Fergus Power says “Having CCTV in place is a highly-effective deterrent and also helps to make people feel justifiably safer. The New Zealand Police and the Wairoa Community Patrol now have the very latest technology to help keep our wonderful community safer. Additionally, any breaches of Council’s by-laws will be dealt with swiftly, including matters such as fly dumping, vandalism and graffiti.”

Rotating zoom, fixed and utility cameras have been installed at known trouble spots throughout the township.

“Camera monitoring equipment will be housed at the Wairoa Police Watch Tower where it will be monitored and reviewed 24/7 by Wairoa Community Patrol volunteers.

“Last year, Council expressed the need to protect public spaces and boost public safety.”

“Council adopted a CCTV policy in February 2015 which cleared the way for a CCTV strategy to unfold in Wairoa.”

“Council is also investing in its public spaces and reserves as part of an economic development programme and CCTV coverage is an effective method of protecting this investment.”

“Knowing that CCTV cameras are in operation will act as a deterrent to graffiti, vandalism and fly dumping, which costs council up to $35,000 per year to deal with.”

“Now that CCTV cameras are in operation we want to reiterate that any breaches of Council’s by-laws will not be tolerated. Ratepayer’s should not be burdened with the costs associated with anti-social, destructive behaviour of a few – and this new system will prove invaluable in detecting them and making them accountable for their actions.”

“Costs for the installation and maintenance of CCTV cameras will be recouped with the anticipated reduction in vandalism, graffiti and fly-dumping. However, what price do you put on peace-of-mind, when it comes to knowing that wrongdoers will more readily be identified and prosecuted?” said Mr Power.

Mayor Craig Little says “I’m pleased that we’re able to look at ways at making our community safer.”

“Council’s CCTV policy applies to its cameras that are located on council land or on council facilities.”

“I can assure everyone that the policy is subject to the provisions of the Privacy Act and is not about being big brother but has everything to do with keeping our community safe and protecting our public spaces”, says Mr Little.

Ends

For more information:

Jamie Cox
Engineering Manager
Wairoa District Council
(06) 838 7309

31 October 2018

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