Burglaries Rally Residents to Action

Sam Andrews-Paul, Neighbourhood Support Masterton

20 May 2009

The fed up residents from Upper Waingawa Road [Masterton] held a Neighbourhood Support meeting on Sunday to discuss ways to combat the many burglaries that have occurred over the last few months. By creating a Neighbourhood Support Group the residents have been able to band together to work on protecting themselves better from criminals. Resident Kerry Conner “There is often some good that comes from a bad situation, in our case we have come together with the common goal of safety and property protection. At the same time we have had a really nice chance to meet and get to know each other better.”

Police and Council were also represented at the meeting and many proactive safety options were discussed. It is likely there will be several surveillance cameras installed shortly and police patrolling will be increased. “The residents here have really had enough, one home has been hit three times, police understand the frustration and we will assist as much as we can” Constable Maureen O’Leary.

“We already have several dedicated residents who have taken it on themselves to record non-local vehicle registrations. They are patrolling and also taking photos of vehicles and even people that may be of interest at a later date.” Kerry Conner

Upper Waingawa Road is a beautiful area and home to several well known swimming spots, in addition to burglaries the Neighbourhood Support meeting was a good opportunity to discuss other common issues. The residents understand the attraction to the area and are happy to share the beauty, all that they ask is for river users to please take away their own rubbish and to respect private property and not cross it to gain access to the river. There are several river access points directly adjacent to the road, these are where users should be entering the river.

“We have a great lifestyle up here and now as a Neighbourhood Support Group we will maintain contact and are in a better position to assist each other, the whole process has been a really positive experience.” Kerry Conner.

If you are interested in Neighbourhood Support [Masterton] please contact Sam Andrews-Paul (378-8900) for further information.