Crime down across the board

Recorded crime statistics for the year to 30 June 2005 revealed a 7.1 percent reduction in overall crime and continues the trend in crime reduction over recent years.

"The continued significant reduction in crime and the limitation of road trauma through dedicated efforts of all members of police is something to be proud of," says Commissioner Rob Robinson.

In the 12 months to June 2005 recorded crime dropped by 7.1 percent while the resolution rate remained relatively constant at 44.2 percent, compared with 45.1 percent in 2003/04 and 43.7 percent in 2002/03.

The total number of offences recorded by police for the 12 months to June 2005 year was 396,018 compared to 426,149 in the previous 12 months. This equates to 8.1 percent reduction per 10,000 population for the year.

This continues a long term downwards trend. Since 1995/96 (which is the earliest year for which we have population estimates calculated) there has been a 24.4 percent drop in recorded crime rate per head of population.

All twelve police districts recorded decreases in total recorded crime. Wellington recorded the biggest reduction with 12.7 percent fewer recorded offences than the previous 12 month period, followed by Bay of Plenty with an 11.8 percent reduction.

"NZ Police's ability to work with communities and to continue to deliver success and not to be distracted by other events is what makes us an outstanding law enforcement agency," says Rob. "Thank you for your work and commitment to making New Zealand a safer place for everyone."