News - Features

Campaign to Keep Safe This Christmas

01.12.06

Wellington City Council is encouraging Wellingtonians and visitors to the city to keep safe this festive season with the launch of its 'Stay Safe in the City' campaign.

The campaign, launched today, is a joint campaign between Council, the Police and ACC with support from Burger King, Stagecoach and Wellington Combined Taxis. The emphasis is on helping Wellingtonians and visitors stay safe while enjoying the spirit of the festive season in the Capital

Mayor Kerry Prendergast says the campaign is aimed at all ages with a particular focus on those celebrating in the city's entertainment zone.

"We simply want everyone to look out for each other this festive season and keep safe. We want residents and visitors to have a great time in our city but we also want to ensure that Wellington continues to be a safe, fun city during the lead-up to and throughout the festive season. As a World Health Organisation safe community, we all have a responsibility to ensure safety remains at the forefront of our minds.

"We've taken a realistic approach with our messages. We're not saying don't drink instead we're saying if you're drinking make sure you eat something as well. We're not saying don't go out – we're saying when you go out plan how you will get home. Everyone has a part to play in keeping themselves and the city safe, whether you're just out for a few drinks after work or out for the opera, or a gig."

Wellington City Area Commander Inspector Peter Cowan says although crime has dropped in the city, December traditionally brings extra challenges to keeping safe with more people out and an increase in alcohol consumption, which can make the central city a riskier place to be, particularly at night.

"Police are still concerned about the level of violent crime, particularly assaults, intimidation, threats and robbery. We're working with the Council and other private businesses to improve security, lighting and cameras in busy areas. However, we don't have all the answers, which is why this campaign is so important. People need to be a bit smarter and take more responsibility for the choices they make when they are in the city."

During the campaign more than 100,000 'Stay Safe in the City' cards with safety tips and a free food offer from Burger King will be distributed throughout the city. There will also be more Walkwise officers out on the streets, sponsored giveaways for safe activity in the city, posters to remind people when the last bus or train leaves, radio and bus shelter advertising encouraging people to ‘stick with their mates'. CBD businesses have also been asked to support the campaign and plan safely for their Christmas parties.

The Council says the main things people should consider when they are out in the city is:

stick with your mates
plan your trip home
remember, the liquor ban applies in public places in the CBD
when parking a car, choose well-lit places and don't leave property inside
if you see someone you think may be in trouble, call the Police on 111.

News - Features

Campaign to Keep Safe This Christmas

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