Council steps up security in city parks

By WAYNE THOMPSON

Random security patrols and monitored closed-circuit television cameras have been introduced to Auckland's premier parks in an attempt to clean up a grim history of muggings, rapes, vandalism and drinking dens.

But despite the new measures, Auckland Mayor John Banks yesterday refused to guarantee there would not be another unprovoked assault in the central city Albert Park.

"I can only minimise the risk and promise to do everything possible," said Mr Banks.

He said the many big trees of the park, which is across the road from two universities, were a haunt of a hardcore of "spooky people".

The Auckland City Council was taking them on with security guard patrols - in uniform and plain clothes - and by extending the inner-city network of closed-circuit television cameras.

Groups of drinkers were being moved out by inclusion of Albert Park and Myers Park in the central-city alcohol ban.

Concern at park safety and the need for better lighting, was expressed yesterday by Auckland University of Technology vice-chancellor Derek McCormack.

But council central parks officer Graham Marchant said more lighting would not make the park safe.

"Some of the types who hang out in the park at night would be a threat regardless of lighting.

"Attacks on the public and threats to parks staff during the day give a perception of a risky place during the day and night."

Mr Marchant said the paths meandering through the park between the universities and the central business area were just as busy as some in the shopping precinct.

Patrols were introduced in response to attacks, a spate of damage to statues and torching of the park depot.

Myers Park - off Queen St - and the Symonds St Cemetery were also patrolled.

"Safety has improved since the patrols came in and vandalism is down," said Mr Marchant, though the police do not keep separate figures for incidents in the parks.

This year the council had a budget of $130,000 for security in central parks, which was $55,000 more than previous spending.

The council was also looking at how it could make Albert Park and the Symonds St Cemetery safer through environmental design.

Most pedestrians spoken to by the Herald at Albert Park last night said they did not feel safe using the park after dark.

"It's not bloody safe if you're walking by yourself," said a 24-year-old Auckland University student.

His 25-year-old female companion agreed. "It's got a reputation for being really dangerous," she said.

The man said he detours around the park if walking alone in the area at night.

Others echoed their sentiments.

"In the evening, I feel scared," said 21-year-old Patty Shen, who walks through the park regularly.

Her friend, 22-year-old Teresa Luk, said the lack of people made her feel uneasy.

A 58-year-old woman said only with a constant security presence would she walk through alone at night. "Unless there was pretty tight surveillance I wouldn't use it."

But 24-year-old William Clayton said he felt safe in the park, despite being the victim of an attempted mugging there last week.

"I don't think about things like that. I'm a pretty fast runner."