The Waitākere Ranges Safety Campaign has launched for the 12th year in west Auckland this summer, with an event at Henderson Valley School.
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 popular west coast beaches, dams and any bush tracks that are still open.
Tackling crime and raising awareness
“This is an issue that is close to my heart,” says board member Michelle Clayton.
“Making our area safer over the busy summer months is at the core of this campaign. It’s a great example of a united approach to tackling crime and raising awareness levels.
“By providing a visible presence in popular recreation spots we will be helping visitors stay safe and ensure they take away happy memories from their day out.
“On behalf of the board, I would like to thank all the volunteers who take part in the campaign, as well as the police for working together with the safety of visitors and residents to the area the top priority."
Summer population increase
Waitemata-West Police Area Commander, Inspector Stefan Sagar, says, “the summer is a time when the population in our West Coast beaches increases significantly, with this increase there is always the possibility of criminal offending, whether that be to break into homes or thefts from vehicles.”
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.
