Manukau City Council’s trial of a monitored street camera at Hunter’s Corner, Papatoetoe is showing signs of success.

Council has run a six month trial of closed circuit television with the aim of reducing public disorder in the area. Statistics show that the number of incidents such as prostitution, glue sniffing, disorderly behaviour and offensive behaviour are reducing. Recorded incidents of prostitution are down 56 percent since March, as has glue sniffing.

Mayor Sir Barry Curtis is very happy with the results of the trial. “Soliciting at Hunter’s Corner has been a long standing issue causing noise and offensive behaviour problems for local residents and businesses. The local councillors, Noel Burnside, Ian McGechie, Bob Wichman and I are extremely pleased that there has been a decrease in prostitution and the associated criminal behaviour in the area. The Chairman and members of the Papatoetoe Community Board are also pleased with progress.

To ensure these improvements continue, Council has added more services to the Hunter's Corner area, including extra street lighting and expanded cleaning services.

Surveillance monitoring company Swiftlink, monitors the camera and liaises directly with the Police when public disorder incidents occur.

“We are very appreciative of the assistance we have received from the NZ Police during the trial. They have tripled the number of patrols which I’m sure has had a positive impact on the results,” Sir Barry said.

“Council will decide by the end of August whether to continue the pilot or install additional cameras. While we’re happy with the downward trend, there is still much improvement to be made. We’ll be looking at other ways we can further reduce the problems, including strengthening bylaws and reviewing the District Plan requirements.

"At the end of the day it is the clients who are supporting undesirable soliciting on city streets in full view of a very concerned neighbourhood. The cameras have clearly identified company cars as well as private vehicles including their registrations and those individuals involved. Therefore clients should understand the possible consequences and desist from this activity immediately."

ENDS

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