SAFER COMMUNITY: Holly Harrison campaigned for the installation of a security camera to combat persistent theftsPHOTO/ LIZ WYLIE HOLLY-HARRISON
SAFER COMMUNITY: Holly Harrison campaigned for the installation of a security camera to combat persistent theftsPHOTO/ LIZ WYLIE HOLLY-HARRISON
Holly Harrison was tired of the thefts that had plagued her small rural community at Whenuakura for 10 years - so she decided to do something about it.
"People would turn off Patea Rd and drive past the school down Kaharoa Rd where they would steal calves, fuel, machinery andequipment, and also break into houses," she said.
"I sent letters out to landowners in the area and within two weeks we had enough donations to purchase a security camera that is now installed opposite the school."
Mrs Harrison said that since the camera was installed, there have been no thefts and footage has shown cars turning into the road late at night and then leaving when the camera is spotted.
Whenuakura school principal Mark Parsons said the camera is in an ideal location and the school is happy to take ownership and maintain the camera for the community.
"Anyone who wants to drive into the area has to come past here and we want to protect school property as well, so we all feel a lot safer with it there," said Mr Parsons.
"Holly has done a wonderful thing for the whole community by coming up with the idea and getting everyone behind it."
Mrs Harrison said a local resident with know-how in camera surveillance had assisted with the purchase and installation, which got the job done quickly.
