New CCTV cameras and additional security staff are being deployed in Auckland’s Newmarket in a $300,000 program aimed at combating crime that is impacting retailers.

The new strategy includes a network of CCTV cameras with automatic number plate recognition, along with a communications hub that will be housed inside the Newmarket police station. It is a collaboration between the Newmarket Business Association – which is funding the initiative – SaferCities, and the NZ Police, with support from AT, PowerComs, and McKay.

The cameras are used to keep track of how long it takes cars to travel and immediately alert the police when a stolen vehicle enters the area. Stolen cars are typically used in smash-and-grab raids of retail stores.

“The CCTV upgrade has allowed us to expand coverage to the whole of the precinct and fill in any black spots we had previously,” said Mark Knoff-Thomas, CEO of the Newmarket Business Association. 

“The new patrol team will be out walking the beat every day, connected to the Hub via a new radio system, and being guided by our CCTV Surveillance Officer. We’d like to acknowledge the NZ Police for their amazing support and for helping get this initiative off the ground, and Auckland Transport for their help and cooperation,” he said.

Newmarket-based car dealer Andrew Simms has provided a Kia Stonic patrol car.

The association said from tomorrow, February 1, Newmarket’s mobile patrol services will be renamed Newmarket Security and will operate seven days a week.

Further reading: New World opens $7.5 million Newmarket store