Police boost presence for Hawke’s Bay gang-tangi convoy between Napier and Waipukurau

A gang tangi will travel from Napier to Waipukurau on Friday, police say. Photo / Dean Purcell.

Police will have a “visible presence” across Hawke’s Bay on Friday as a gang-tangi convoy travels from Napier to Waipukurau.

A large number of gang members and associates are expected to be in the region for the event and police will have additional resources available to support staff Hawke’s Bay Area Commander Inspector Lincoln Sycamore said in a statement.

However, he said police are mindful of providing a space for whānau and friends to grieve peacefully while balancing the safety of the community.

Police have been in contact with local gang leaders to outline their expectations, including around the wearing or displaying of gang insignia in a public place, which police say they will act upon.

“Our focus is on the safety of everyone,” Sycamore said.

“We will not tolerate behaviour that aims to threaten or intimidate, and officers will be working to reduce disruption to the public.

“Even if we can’t take enforcement action on the day, staff will follow up on reports of illegal activity.”

Police will have additional patrols in place, including on the roads over the coming days and urge anyone who witnesses illegal behaviour to call 111 immediately.

If reporting matters after the fact, police ask to please make a report online or call 105.