The newly established Tāmaki Makaurau Pacific Wardens group has been officially launched at a ceremony in South Auckland. While still maintaining their individual identities, the event celebrates the amalgamation of Auckland’s seven regional groups.
Mayor Phil Goff and Councillor Filipaina attended the launch and Councillor Alf Filipaina, described as a ‘pillar’ of the Tāmaki Makaurau Pacific Wardens, is immensely proud of the wardens.
“There are around 100 members of our Pacific community who volunteer their time to work as Pacific Wardens. People feel safer with their presence around the city,” says Councillor Filipaina.
“They work alongside our Police and the council, helping to prevent crime and victimisation in their communities. The work of these volunteers helps bridge a gap and makes our city stronger and more connected. The partnership that has been built up over the years between the wardens, the Police and the council is important and extremely valuable.”
The first Pacific Wardens group began in Auckland around 25 years ago with groups now established in Waitākere, North Shore, Glen Eden, Whau, Maungakiekie-Tāmaki, Māngere and Ōtara. The ongoing relationship between Pacific Wardens, Police and the council formalised into a partnership. In 2017, the Tamaki Makaurau Pacific Wardens Trust was set up by the Pacific Community with support from the council and Police to provide governance for the Pacific Wardens throughout Tamaki Makaurau.
Auckland Council has supported the Pacific Wardens for many years, including providing uniforms and free meeting spaces and contributing staff resource. This year, the council funded the trust $30,000 towards the appointment of a regional coordinator.
Congratulations to Luke Mealamu, who played rugby for Auckland, Counties Manukau and Manu Samoa, who was recently appointed as coordinator of the Tāmaki Makaurau Pacific Wardens.
