The Wānaka Community Patrol is calling for more volunteers to help keep the Upper Clutha community safe.

The patrol has quietly been operating for more than a decade. 

Established in 2014 by local residents, the group works alongside local police as an extra set of “eyes and ears” in the community.

Volunteers patrol Wānaka and surrounding areas on Friday and Saturday nights in a marked patrol car, usually for around four hours between 8pm and 2am.

Wānaka Community Patrol chair and spokesperson Bruce Hebbard says the group currently has 15 active patrollers, but 25 would be the ideal number. 

“You could never have too many,” he said.

Bruce said much of the patrol’s work happens quietly behind the scenes and goes unnoticed, with small issues dealt with before they escalate.

Each shift begins with volunteers checking in with police to see if there are any areas or issues that require attention.

“They may ask to look out for certain cars, to travel around certain streets where noise has been reported, or to look around… areas where theft/burglaries have taken place,” Bruce said. 

Some tasks are as straightforward as straightening road cones, while other times volunteers are called upon to help members of the public or check for untoward behaviour around an area.

On a recent patrol, volunteers located a distressed woman and contacted police, who were able to help get her home safely.

Volunteers patrol in pairs and don’t intervene in situations where they may be at risk. In those cases, police are called.

Volunteers should have good community awareness and common sense, Bruce said.

The joining process includes simple paperwork, an online quiz, and a low-level police vetting check. No prior experience is required, with training provided ‘on the job’.

Patrollers are encouraged to complete at least one shift a month. Many current volunteers are retired, and those involved often find the role rewarding.

“They say they get… satisfaction in helping the community,” Bruce said.

Anyone interested in joining the Wānaka Community Patrol can contact Bruce Hebbard (027 613 3724 or email [email protected]). Find more information here.

PHOTO: Supplied