Schools repeat safety warnings after man upsets Havelock North student

Havelock North High School principal Greg Fenton has sent an email out to families after a student was approached by a man yesterday morning. Photo / File

A Havelock North High School student was approached by a man on her way to school yesterday morning.

The incident took place outside Peak Dental on Te Mata Rd and the student is understood to have been upset by the nature of the conversation.

Principal Greg Fenton said the school had communicated with families to make them aware of the incident and had spoken to police.

In an email sent out to homes yesterday Mr Fenton said: "We would like to take this opportunity to remind families and students of the importance of staying safe on the way to and from school.

"We recommend that students walk in groups and report any inappropriate behaviour to the school immediately."

He said it was "sad, disappointing and frustrating that students should be put under this sort of pressure".

A police spokeswoman confirmed they had received a report of a teenager approached by a man on Te Mata Rd.

"It was reported to have happened this morning. Police are speaking to the person involved and her family."

She said this was a timely reminder to the public to report suspicious or concerning behaviour to police immediately so they can investigate.

"Our advice to parents is to be alert, not alarmed. We encourage parents and teachers to remind their children about what to do if they feel unsafe.

"If people see any suspicious activity, they are reminded to take down any registration numbers, and take a note of the physical descriptions of people and pass them to police."

Police encouraged families, whanau and caregivers to have discussions with their children about keeping safe and remind children to remove themselves from an uncomfortable situation, and always tell someone if other people make them feel unsafe, worried or scared.

Police advise parents and caregivers of students to:
• Teach your child how to get safely to and from school and other places they go – whether they walk, bike or go by bus.
• Make clear rules about getting home.
• If you haven't done so, go to school with your child so you can show them the safest route. Try to use main arterial routes with more people around and avoid walkways and isolated areas.
• Anyone who has an immediate concern for their safety should not hesitate to call 111.
• We actively encourage students to report anything that makes them feel unsafe or uncomfortable. This can be to a trusted adult, a teacher or the police.