New Zealanders value the ability to congregate, socialise and connect alongside others. This can involve working in, using or visiting crowded places. The nature of crowded places means they pose extra risks to people, as they can be a target for attacks.
Everyone has a role to play in keeping crowded places safe, whether they are government officials, owners and operators of crowded places, community organisers or members of the public.
The New Zealand Government tasked Police to lead a cross agency group to develop Protecting Our Crowded Places from Attack: New Zealand’s Strategy, which sets out a consistent approach to promote the safety of crowded places.
The strategy also highlights what individuals should do in the unlikely event of getting caught up in an armed offender attack. The three words to remember are: ESCAPE. HIDE. TELL.
ESCAPE.
Move quickly and quietly away from danger, but only if it is safe to do.
HIDE.
Stay out of sight and silence your mobile phone.
TELL.
Call the Police by dialling 111 when it is safe.
In an emergency everyone should call 111
If the information is not time-critical, people can report suspicious or unusual behaviour to their local Police by:
- completing a report at 105.police.govt.nz or calling New Zealand Police’s non-emergency number 105
- visiting their nearest Police station
- calling Crime Stoppers if you wish to remain anonymous on 0800 555 111
To report information of national security concern, call the NZSIS on 0800 747 224 or use their Public Contribution Form