To better understand how to protect the Whakatāne CBD from ram-raids and similar crime, Whakatāne District Council has commissioned a report on current and possible future crime threats to the area. 

The Security and Risk Assessment Report was presented to councilors at the Risk and Assurance Committee on Monday (30 May). 

Council General Manager Strategy and Transformation Steven Perdia said the report by Global Risk Consulting made recommendations to Council that it believes will help reduce crime in Whakatāne’s Central Business District.

These include installing physical barriers, CCTV, signage, and additional lighting. It also included employing security guards, training businesses in security awareness and developing security and contingency plans for the CBD. 

Mr Perdia said while the report focused on potential steps Council could take, it was important to remember the solution doesn’t solely rest with the Council and we’d prefer it is driven and led by our community. 

“It will take a cross-agency approach to truly reduce the risk of these smash and grab type crimes including collaboration between Council, Government, Police, CBD businesses and the wider community.

“It was interesting to read in the report that many of those committing the crime in our CBD are not locals. Some have travelled from as far afield as Hamilton and Wellington and are targeting Whakatāne as they see it as a soft-target with businesses containing high-value items. 

“Youth crime is rising nationally and is not just a Whakatāne issue, however by commissioning this report we are leading the way and getting ahead of the problem. 

“We hope this will put us ahead of the rest when accessing any new funding opportunities offered by Government,” said Mr Perdia. 

The report has been presented to a Whakatāne CBD stakeholder group including affected businesses and EPIC. Discussions are now underway to form a working group to develop a plan and identify actions for Council, businesses and the community.