Dunedin has three community patrol groups — Mosgiel-Taieri, North Dunedin and South Dunedin — whose dozens of volunteers patrol the night-time streets in vehicles, keeping an eye out for trouble and helping with emergencies.
Mosgiel-Taieri Community Patrol’s 24 volunteers cover the wider Taieri area, from Lookout Point to Waihola and Middlemarch, as well as in other areas when needed.
Patrol chairman Dave Mitchell said the organisation provided cover on Friday nights, and Saturday afternoons and nights, when needed.
‘‘We are essentially the eyes and ears of the police, who feel we play a vital role in the community. We are also available ... if the police or Emergency Response Group need our assistance.’’
To help ensure southern community patrollers have the skills and training needed to meet the demands, the group hosted a training session for 74 patrollers from across the southern district earlier this year.
Held at the Helicopters Otago base and Wingatui Hall, the training day covered CPR, defibrillators and first-aid training, as well as giving patrollers the chance to view the range of equipment carried in a patrol vehicle.
The Otago Emergency Management Agency, Police and the Fire Restoration Society gave presentations.
For more information on becoming a volunteer, visit www.cpnz.org.nz, or email mosgielcp@xtra.co.nz
