Coasties will be glad to hear that a coordinated effort to reduce crime in Auckland’s central business district (CBD) is showing positive results.

Recent police data reveals a 22% decrease in serious assaults in the Auckland CBD from 1 January to 31 July this year, compared to the same period last year.

Police Minister Mark Mitchell credits this decline to a cross-government strategy aimed at tackling both crime and anti-social behaviour.

“Our central cities should be great places to live and work,” says Mitchell.

“In Auckland, businesses and residents suffered as violent crime soared. Kiwis ought to feel safe going about their daily lives, and that is why this Government is focused on restoring law and order.”

In July, an additional 21 police officers were deployed to the Auckland CBD, raising the total number of beat officers to 51.

This increased police visibility, along with the government's broader initiatives, appears to be making a tangible difference.

In addition to the reduction in serious assaults, incidents of assault resulting in injury have dropped by 18%.

Police Minister Mark Mitchell.

A coordinated strategy involving multiple stakeholders has been crucial in these improvements.

Since May, representatives from the Auckland City Council, Kāinga Ora, the Ministry of Social Development, Māori wardens, and other community groups have been meeting regularly to address the issues.

“Police cannot do this on their own, but together we are seeing positive results,” Mitchell adds.

One standout success is the 68% reduction in the number of households relying on emergency housing in the CBD, which has decreased from 53 to 17.

This drop has allowed for the closure of two emergency motels. Additionally, retail crime has fallen by 50%, according to Heart of the City, and Auckland Council reports an overall 35% drop in crime in the CBD.

Despite these gains, Mitchell acknowledges there’s still work to be done.

“Our government will keep working every day to ensure every Aucklander living or working in the CBD feels safe. That’s why we’re rolling out new powers for Police and introducing tougher sentencing laws for violent and repeat offenders.”