CCTV cameras to monitor Queenstown festival

Research has shown cameras reduced crime such as theft. Photo / AP

Ten CCTV cameras have been installed in Queenstown and will be switched on before the start of the Winter Festival today.

Senior Constable Sean Drader said he hoped those in the resort would "feel a degree safer".

Research had shown cameras reduced crime such as theft, he said.

In the 1990s, analogue cameras were installed in central areas but Mr Drader said costly maintenance meant they fell into disrepair.

"The cameras, one by one, stopped working. It's been a lot of work to get them going again."

This time, the cameras are digital and will transmit to a receiver at the top of Ben Lommond which would send the data to the Queenstown police station.

The technology meant the footage could be used in court.