The New Zealand Police tractor has arrived in Invercargill and will be attending local A&P Shows in the Southland Area this January and February.
Senior Sergeant Cynthia Fairley says the tractor was popular with the big kids and the little kids when it was here earlier this year for the Southern Field Days in Waimumu.
“It was great to see rural and city folk taking every opportunity for a chat with Police and local issues, as well as snapping a photo with our new tractor,” she says.
The tractor is a new version supplied by CB Norwood, a 2017 New Holland T5-95 complete with Police light bar.
Fairly says the tractor is a great way to speak conversations with rural communities about reporting rural crime and gives Police an opportunity to provide crime prevention advice.
“We want to get the message out that everyone needs to take responsibility for preventing crime. It is as simple as locking up and securing your own property, tools, fuel, firearms and valuable items," she says.
“Criminals don’t like to be caught on camera, so install adequate security lighting and high resolution cameras.
“Our most important message is to look out for your neighbours.”
Fairley also wants to encourage rural folk to immediately report any suspicious activity.
“That little piece of information or registration number of a vehicle may be the last piece of the puzzle that Police need to solve a crime,” says Fairley.
Police encourage residents to start up a Neighbourhood Support Group in your area or just for your street. Advice on starting one up can be found at www.neighbourhoodsupport.co.nz or through your local Police officer.
The tractor is currently on display at the Agricentre South out at Lorneville but will be present at the following A&P shows before it heads north:
- Winton A&P Show on 21st January 2017
- Edendale Crank Up 28th and 29th January 2017
- Gore A&P Show 4th February 2017
- Tuatapere A&P Show 11th February 2017
Southern Police invite everyone to come along, have a catch up, and climb aboard for a photo.
ENDS
Police Media Centre
