New look for Rotorua Safe City Guardians
Safe City Guardian Telesia Niko has been with the Guardian team for about 12 months after working for a local security firm, and says that a big part of their role is engaging with the local community.
“I really enjoy getting out and speaking with people in the shops and visitors on the street. I just want to make sure everyone I see is okay, safe and that they know where we are if they need us.
“On a day to day basis we deal with anything from rough sleepers and school students to tourists looking for directions or assistance. I think the new uniform makes us look a lot friendlier, so people can feel comfortable coming to us if they need help.
“We are a great team, and this role gives you a good understanding of all the different types of people that live in our community. I just treat people how I would want to be treated, and I think that’s why people respond to us so well.”
Later this month the Safe City Guardians will be moving into the new Inner City Community Safety Hub which will provide a central space where they can work from alongside our Police partners and the Māori Wardens, better coordinating resources and providing a visible safety presence in the inner city.
Other Community Safety initiatives include increasing the CCTV network and monitoring, collective coordination between Council, Police, Māori Wardens and contracted security, and improving safety on buses and at bus stops.