The Waitākere Ranges Safety Campaign returns for the eleventh year in west Auckland this summer.
From December to March, it promotes crime reporting, fire safety, water safety and civil defence awareness.
Waitākere Ranges Local Board, the police and more than 200-community agency volunteers will join forces to patrol car parks at Waitakere’s popular west coast beaches, dams and any bush tracks that are still open.
United approach
“The campaign is a great example of a united approach to tackling crime and making our area safer over the busy summer months,” says Waitākere Ranges Local Board member Neil Henderson.
“By providing a visible presence in popular recreation spots, campaign volunteers will be helping to keep visitors safer in the west coast and ensure they take away happy memories from their day out.”
Sgt Greg Wilson, Massey Community Station in charge, says the summer is always a time when crime increases.
“There is always an increase in car thefts, break-ins, burglaries and minor disorders over the summer holiday period, predominantly in our beach car parks.
“We don’t want anybody’s beach or scenic outing to be tarnished by any crime or incident affecting water and fire safety.
"We can all play a part helping out when visiting the west coast over summer. Be sure to secure your vehicles and take your personal items with you.”
Keep your eyes open
West Aucklanders are encouraged to:
- watch out for and report suspicious behaviour
- look for fire danger such as smoke
- be safe in the water by swimming between the flags and noticing unsafe activity
- look out for natural disasters by being aware of unusual weather or landscape changes.
- Please report any suspicious or dangerous activity. Early notification, detection or intervention could save lives.
Always stay safe
Help out if you can do so safely, but remember: your personal safety comes first. Call 111 to report an emergency.
