Rising youth crime and gang violence, a problem in Wainuiomata

Concerns about the rise of youth crime, gang violence and lack of police visibility were aired at a public meeting in Wainuiomata on Monday night.
About 65 members of the community gathered for an open forum-style meeting at the Louise Bilderbeck Hall.
Senior sergeant Brad Allen said gangs offered youth money, kudos and power.
“It’s not just an issue that’s going to be solved at this meeting, it’s a long-term thing,” Allen said, referring to a lack of activities for youth in the area.
Wainuiomata Trail Park president Dirk Skagen said there had been a number of recent incidents “endangering the safety of park users”.
When people approached the police or council previously, they did not respond with urgency, he said.