State and Neighbourhood Support Canterbury have joined forces in a partnership to increase safety awareness and reduce the risk of crime in the region.

The new partnership was officially launched at a luncheon in Christchurch on 4th August 2004.

State is assisting Neighbourhood Support Canterbury by providing office space at the Riccarton sales centre in Division Street, as well as contributing to salary, vehicle and running costs.

"This is a pilot project for State, with a view to widening our support to districts in the country suffering high crime rates should the Canterbury initiative be a success" says Kerryn Butler, State's Sustainability Support Manager.