Enough is enough.
After a surge in violent incidents, Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board and Indian Retailers' Association have appealed to the Mayor, the Governing Body and Government for enhanced security at Hunters Corner.
Deeply alarmed by the violence, which recently saw one business owner robbed twice in one evening, and has been described by another as increasing every week, the Indian Retailers’ Association reached out to the board, seeking immediate help to protect local businesses and safeguard their communities.
In turn, the board has written to Government ministers and the Mayor and Governing Body to ask for support with the issue.
Board chair Apulu Reece Autagavaia emphasises, “We need a multipronged approach to dealing with violent crimes including violent robberies of shop premises. This should include more youth workers, alternate opportunities for all our youth, and better robust security and safety measures for our shop owners and shoppers alike.”
More than 80 businesses operate within the Hunters Corner district in Papatoetoe.
The board is actively working with the Indian Retailers’ Association to find ways to enhance safety and security for local shop owners. However, with limited funding, any solutions are expected to be short-term, highlighting the urgent need for more sustainable support.
“The Ōtara-Papatoetoe Local Board and the Indian Retailers’ Association are passionately urging the Government, Mayor, and Councillors to extend their support for essential safety and security measures.
“Shop owners and local shoppers deserve to run their businesses and live their lives in peace - something every Aucklander should be able to do without fear,” says Apulu.
Rajesh, President of the Indian Retailer’s Association, expresses the frustration of business owners who juggle the challenge of collaborating with community and law enforcement while striving to maintain a positive, thriving environment.
“Operating a business in Hunters Corner is tough with rising crime, as owners wrestle with safety issues, financial pressures, and the need to collaborate with the community while striving to keep their businesses successful,” says Rajesh.
“South Auckland, especially Papatoetoe, feels overlooked in safety measures despite its high concentration of gold jewellery shops and the upcoming Diwali rush. Business owners are frustrated by the lack of attention and resources compared to other areas, this is why we need stronger safety measures to protect our community and our local businesses.”
In the letter, the board outlines the need for support for:
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funding for increased security (including reinstituting the Government crime fund)
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increased police presence (ultimately a local police station being re-established)
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positive legislative change (such as amending the Proceeds of Crime Act).
Recently, Hunter’s Corner Town Centre was the scene of a harrowing attack where armed offenders violently targeted a jeweller’s shop, leaving the shop owner battered with a hammer. This shocking incident prompted the Indian Retailers’ Association to hold a heartfelt protest, drawing national attention as both the attack and the protest were widely covered in the news.
Image source: 1news. Protest in Papatoetoe following the violent robbery at Pooja Jewellers on Kolmar Road.
Apulu says, “We want to see the same level of support in South Auckland that has been extended to combating crime in the Central Business District, and are calling for the government and Mayor to act."
Rajesh adds, “Our message is clear - addressing safety concerns here in Hunters Corner is a priority for our community - a Papatoetoe police station is a good place to start, so business owners can get back to their businesses.”
The board and the Indian Retailers’ Association have extended the invitation for further discussions with the mayor’s office and government.
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