Police have launched Auckland’s first suburban beat team, which began patrolling the Henderson CBD this week.
This marks the second beat team for the country’s largest policing region, focused on increasing police visibility and engagement in one of West Auckland’s bustling CBDs.
The Henderson Beat Team was formally introduced to the community today, with Police Minister Mark Mitchell and other key partners joining Waitematā Police for the occasion.
“Today marks an important step forward for policing in Henderson,” Waitematā West Area Commander, Inspector Simon Walker says.
“This initiative reflects our commitment to being present, engaged, and responsive in the spaces where people live, work, shop, travel, and connect.”
Inspector Walker says visible and approachable policing helps prevent crime and builds public confidence.
“When Police are visible and approachable, it not only helps prevent crime but also fosters a sense of safety and confidence that allows the community to thrive.”
The new team includes a Sergeant and six experienced Constables. All new recruits posted to the area will also spend time with the Beat Team, further strengthening its presence.
“Our officers will be regularly patrolling public spaces, engaging with businesses, and connecting with locals. They’ll be a familiar and trusted presence in the Henderson CBD,” Inspector Walker says.
“Everyone has the right to be and feel safe in Henderson. Behaviour that undermines that—whether through crime, antisocial conduct, or intimidation—will be dealt with appropriately and effectively.
“We will hold people accountable for behaviour that falls short of community expectations, while also working alongside our partners to understand and address the underlying drivers of antisocial behaviour.
"This balanced approach is key to creating lasting change and ensuring our public spaces remain safe and inclusive for everyone.”
Even before their official deployment, the team was already making an impact.
Inspector Walker says the team had been getting experience alongside the Auckland City Beat Team when they sprang into action when heading back to base.
“A job came over the radio with a shoplifting taking place at West City, which the team deployed to and located two teenage girls truant from school.
“They’d stolen more than $200 worth of product, which has been returned. They will be held to account while also working to understand why they weren’t in school.”
On Monday, the team also arrested an alleged prolific shoplifter near The Boundary shopping centre.
The 37-year-old woman faces 10 shoplifting charges alongside a fraud offence, with Police opposing her bail.
“We all have a role in keeping our communities safe, and we’re up for the challenge of working together to make Henderson a safer place.”
ENDS.
Jarred Williamson/Nz Police
