There have been reports of a number of property crime incidents in recent weeks in Maungaraki and across other hill suburbs. Most of these have been car break-ins and similar, however there have also been burglaries and a “joyride-style” car theft. While crime in the area remains very low, the MCA met with representatives from the Police tonight to discuss this, and to seek reassurance that the Police are aware and treating crime and criminal activity on the hill seriously.
The Police were very responsive to the concerns and provided some advice that we should all consider (below). Additionally, they noted that while they had increased patrols, crime on the hill is still very low – it remains a very safe place to live. Some key things we should ALL be doing:
- IMPORTANT: If you become aware of anything suspicious at all, and it’s happening now, call 111. Calling 111 is NOT just for emergency-style events, but for anything suspicious that is happening right now. If you’re unsure, call 111.
- For crimes that have already occurred, report these via 105. You can call, but it’s often easier to report via the website https://105.co.nz
- It’s essential that ALL crime is reported to Police, however minor. The more that is reported, the more the Police will increase patrols in the area and respond. If your car is broken into, report it. If your letterbox is damaged, report it.
- You can also pass on information to Crime Stoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111 (or via their website).
- The Police also recommend everyone take simple but effective precautions such as sensor lights, house, and car alarms, keeping an eye on your neighbours’ places (especially if they’re away) and setting up cameras to record suspicious activity.
The MCA will also be keeping an open dialogue with the Police, so if you have any details that you would like passed on about anything happening in the area, let us know via DM. Note that crime should be reported directly, however.
MCA will also be liaising with the Petone Community Patrol to look at increasing their coverage of the hill suburbs – we’ll post separately about this in due course. It’s likely they will be looking for volunteers to assist with this. Again, we want to point out that even with the recent incidents, the crime rate in Maungaraki is incredibly low – probably the lowest in the Hutt. But that doesn’t mean we should tolerate crime when it does happen and following the steps above will help us all keep our community safe.
We are stronger together.
Maungaraki Community Association
