Community Patrols Start in Wellington South

The country’s newest community patrol - Wellington South Community Patrol - starts in Wellington South today Friday 1 April 2011. Affiliated to Community Patrols NZ, it was formed by business and community interests in conjunction with the NZ Police. Wellington South Community Patrol aims to help reduce crime, prevent anti-social behaviour, assist people in distress and make the community feel safer.

Co-ordinator Peter Cooke said “the southern suburbs have long had an issue with anti-social behaviour and minor offending that can be moderated by a community patrol. Patrols are the eyes and ears of our law and order system, and we can head off problems before they escalate.” The patrol will operate in Mt Cook, Brooklyn, Newtown, Mornington, Vogeltown, Berhampore, Kingston, Happy Valley, Island Bay, Melrose (parts of), Southgate, Houghton Bay and Owhiro Bay at appropriate dates and times. The ridgeline of Mt Victoria/Mt Albert is our boundary with the Eastern Rocks Community Patrol.

Each patrol of two people in a car is in constant contact with police and can alert business owners and other large institutions in the area, such as schools and the council, to potential issues on their properties. “We also keep a look out for young people to make sure they are safe,” Co-ordinator Peter Cooke said.

The idea for patrols in southern and eastern suburbs started with meetings in Kilbirnie in November 2010 and February 2011. “The NZ Police and CPNZ have been very supportive of the country’s newest community patrol.”

“The community patrol currently has 16 members, but more will always be welcomed. Only four hours per month is required, and all the training is free and practical. Community groups, stakeholders and businesses can also help with sponsorship or assistance in kind.”

Community Patrols NZ is a charitable trust that was started a decade ago (Charitable Trust Reg No.CC31245). Donations to a charitable trust are tax-free. Currently 134 patrols are affiliated to it around the country.

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