A $6 million funding package to support retailers in response to retail crime announced by the New Zealand government has been welcomed by retailers.

Retail NZ chief executive Greg Harford said retailers across the country are experiencing retail crime on a daily basis and that it was placing a significant financial strain on the sector.

“Whether this is violence, aggression, theft, ram raids or anti-social behaviour, accessing this fund to gain support from the New Zealand Police is another step forward in delivering and responding to a significant issue for the retail sector,” he said.

Harford added that all New Zealanders need to be on the same page, and understand they need to respect individuals, as well as private property.  

“From the unfortunate accepted level of abuse and violence Kiwis throw at retailers to the more ‘news grabbing’ incidents of ram raids, employees, managers and owners of retail stores are all victims, and there should be zero tolerance to retail crime from everyone.”

He has urged implementing a significant program across the education, justice, police and welfare sectors to better combat retail crime.