Safety Points trial aimed at making streets feel safer

Safety Points, clearly marked intercoms that connect people to help immediately if they’re feeling unsafe or need support in the city, have been installed in three different locations in Wellington’s central city.  

They’ll be installed for a trial period of 6-9 months, during which time data will be collected on how they’re used, and the process behind them tested and refined, ultimately providing a better service to Wellingtonians.   

They can be found at the following locations:  

• Cuba Mall (near 117 Cuba Street)  

• Te Aro Park (19 Dixon Street) 

• Courtenay/Allen Street (35 Courtenay Place) 

All three locations are visible through our existing CCTV camera network and have lots of foot traffic.  

Anyone feeling uncomfortable or unsafe in these areas can push a button to talk to someone via the intercom immediately. A safety operator will be on the other end of the intercom 24/7, and will be able to provide immediate guidance to the person on the other end of the intercom, and coordinate help to be sent their way if needed.  

The cameras have been put in places that can be seen through existing CCTV, so safety operators can monitor the person until they feel safe.   

Using our existing network of CCTV cameras helps reduce the cost for this trial, as that infrastructure is already in place.   

City Safety Senior Responsible Officer Sehai Orgad says the Safety Points are part of a broader shift in how Wellington City Council is approaching public safety.

“We’ve heard the concerns about feeling unsafe at night, and the Safety Points are a practical step we’re taking to respond — visible, simple, and easy to use. They’re strategically located, and linked into our CCTV network so we can monitor what’s happening and connect people to help when it’s needed.

“But we’re not just installing hardware, we’re changing the way we work. Our operators are starting to take a more active role in supporting city safety, alongside Police, our Urban Liaison Officers, and community patrols.

“This is a new model for us, and we’re learning as we go. We’re asking the public to be patient as we test and refine how this works in practice. The Safety Points won’t solve everything, but they are part of a more visible, coordinated, and people-focused safety presence in the city.”

Sehai says the Safety Points are one of several new initiatives being delivered through the City Safety and Wellbeing Plan — a refreshed and more joined-up approach to creating a city that feels safe, welcoming, and connected for everyone.

The cost of delivering the Safety Points trial — including installation, integration into our CCTV network, and 24/7 operator support — is an estimated $50,000.

This investment supports a more connected, visible, and responsive city safety system.