Dannevirke: Crime falls but police manpower still short

Crime statistic have dropped dramatically despite police numbers being down slightly in the Tararua. Image / Getty Images

Crime statistic have dropped dramatically despite police numbers being down slightly in the Tararua.

"We've had three resignations this year and we've been advertising, trying to fill those vacancies, without success," senior sergeant Nathan Davis of Tararua police sub-area said. And while some residents are worried Dannevirke would become a target for crime, Mr Davis said there had not been any let up in dealing with incidents.

"If and when we are short on numbers, staff from the Manawatu and wider Tararua sub areas get stuck in and helpus.

"Police from country areas in this district are also happy to help us out."

However, Mr Davis said although reported family violence was down 42 per cent across the district, 40 per cent of his officers time was taken up dealing with these incidents.

"That's a social issue across New Zealand and we all have to face it."

Although there had been some dramatic drops in crime across the district, there had been a large increase in theft from vehicles, Mr Davis said.

"If we all make it harder for the criminals to offend in this area by not leaving valuables in vehicles which can be seen and by simply locking the vehicle even if it is up your driveway, this would go a long way to helping us all out. Our numbers are relatively low in this area but an increase is an increase."

And while staffing numbers are down across the Tararua, with Pahiatua struggling too, Mr Davis said he had not seen a change in morale among his staff.

"Busy people are happy people, but, yes, I do take it to heart a bit when we can't attract people.

"It's a subject we talk about every day and try to come up with ideas to solve the problem."

One issue is the lack of meaningful employment for police officers' spouses and Mr Davis has talked to prominent business leaders and Tararua District mayor Roly Ellis about this.

The approach by police to their employment was also changing Mr Davis said.

"These days we don't have officers always seeing the police force as a career for life. They look for other opportunities."

Meanwhile, another advertising campaign last week has resulted in inquiries about the positions.

The police are also advertising for short-term relievers from the greater Manawatu area.