Ōrewa Businesses Demand Enhanced Safety Measures Amid Rising Crime

A recent meeting in Ōrewa brought together over 60 local businesses to address growing concerns about crime in the town centre. Organized by Destination Ōrewa Beach, the gathering included police representatives, compliance staff from the Auckland Council, and community patrol members who discussed strategies to enhance safety amid rising incidents of crime.

Among the attendees were key figures such as Inspector John Thornley, the Waitematā North Area Commander, and other local law enforcement officials, including Nina Pedersen, the Rodney Crime Prevention officer, and Sergeant Jon Williams, the Rodney Youth Aid officer. Also present was Hellen Wilkins, the manager of Destination Ōrewa Beach, and Adrian Wilson, the Council compliance manager.

MP Cameron Brewer’s senior adviser, Alexia Mesnage, represented MP Mark Mitchell, who was unable to attend due to his role as Minister of Police. This meeting highlights the community’s urgent call for stronger action against crime.

Inspector Thornley acknowledged that resource limitations within the police force remain a challenge. He urged business owners to report every incident through emergency numbers 111 or 105, emphasizing that accurate data is crucial for assessing crime levels. Currently, a police team is investigating a recent arson case and two ram raids that have heightened anxiety within the community.

To address these concerns, Inspector Thornley mentioned that a task force is actively developing a crime prevention plan. The new Police Commissioner has prioritized increasing police visibility, which has been supported by enhanced patrols and the reopening of the Waitematā East District Custody Unit earlier this year. This facility’s reopening has significantly reduced the time frontline officers spend transporting detainees.

During the meeting, several business owners expressed frustration over recurring low-level offenses, including shoplifting and antisocial behavior from a known group of offenders. One retailer noted that it was disheartening to report incidents only to see the same individuals return the following day. Concerns were also raised about older residents feeling intimidated near ATMs in locations like Hillary Square and in adjacent lanes, as well as issues with freedom camping on Ōrewa Beach.

Inspector Thornley acknowledged the community’s frustrations and reiterated the importance of contacting the police if anyone felt threatened. He assured attendees that police presence in the town centre would increase and that they would continue collaborating with local organizations, including the Hibiscus Coast Community Patrol and the Auckland Council, to strengthen safety measures.

Adrian Wilson, the compliance manager, highlighted the complexities involved in addressing issues related to rough sleepers and the homeless population. He is actively working to increase the number of compliance officers in the area to help tackle these challenges.

Since the meeting, Ōrewa has seen the deployment of two Council compliance officers, who will patrol the area for 40 hours each week. Hellen Wilkins confirmed that Destination Ōrewa Beach plans to reconvene with police in six months to monitor progress on the agreed safety initiatives.

The community’s collective action reflects a determined effort to create a safer environment for residents and businesses in Ōrewa.