Two of Whakatāne’s parking wardens are to address the New Zealand Parking Association’s national conference in September on the success of their body-worn cameras. Initially introduced for training purposes in January of this year, the cameras have proven to be a great success with a marked change in attitude registered amongst the public.

Though Hamilton, Auckland and Wellington have trialled similar systems, Whakatāne was the first in the country to put the cameras into fulltime use, and the wardens' presentation in Auckland will outline the practical experience gained here.

Whakatāne wardens estimate that since the cameras were put into regular use and liaison began with Police, aggressive behaviour from members of the public has fallen 75%. The cameras have also helped resolve disputes and aided in staff training.

The town’s parking wardens began patrolling the town centre and Kopeopeo some 20 years ago to promote public safety and ensure fair and orderly parking.