There's bad news for thieves planning to hit Auckland's West Coast beauty spots this summer - hundreds of eyes and ears will be patrolling the car parks at popular beaches, dams and bush tracks.
Operation Speedo, a joint initiative of the Police and Auckland Council begins today and runs until April.
Staff and volunteers from more than 14 organisations (listed below) will help to patrol West Coast beaches, dams and bush tracks. Lifeguards, park rangers, parking wardens, visitor centre staff, firemen, Watercare engineers and postal staff will all be involved with reporting any suspicious behaviour immediately to Police. Surf lifesavers, park rangers and parking officers will keep in radio contact with Police.
Senior Sergeant Matt Srhoj, Youth & Community Manager, Waitakere Police says thefts from cars parked at Bethells and Piha beaches increase during the summer months; "It's horrible for anyone enjoying a nice day out to come back to their car and find it's been broken into, and this is a prime example of the old saying 'safer communities together'. It's great that we're able to work with the Council and other groups in an effort to prevent anyone from becoming a victim of crime" says Snr Sgt Srhoj.
The operation also aims to promote water safety, by providing advice and reassurance to visitors.
"This is the seventh year we've run this with the Police and other partners and it's been very successful. By having a visible presence in these popular spots we can stop crime before it happens and ensure anyone coming to the West Coast leaves with happy memories" says Michael Alofa, Senior Community Safety Advisor, Auckland Council.
The following agencies are taking part:
-Police
-Auckland Council
-Surf Lifesaving
-Auckland Transport
-Civil Defence
-Watercare Services
-Arataki Visitor Centre
-Global Security
First Security
-NZ Fire Service (Northern Region, rural and volunteer)
-NZ Post
Community Patrol NZ
Neighbourhood Support Waitakere
St Johns
For more information please contact:
Beth Bates/Waitemata Police
09 488 9758 or 021 192 1243
Michael Alofa, Senior Community Safety Advisor, Auckland Council
09 301 0101 ext 8531 or 021 220 5935