Applications are now open for the Western Bay of Plenty District Council CCTV Fund – with $50,000 available to help make our shared spaces safer.

The fund aims to help prevent crime and deter antisocial behaviour by adding to the growing network of CCTV (closed-circuit television) cameras around the rohe (district).

Since the fund was introduced four years ago, it had supported the installation of 25 new cameras throughout the Western BoP.

To be eligible, proposed cameras must be located in shared public spaces –not on private property.

Applications are considered by a panel that includes councillors, Western Bay of Plenty District Council operations manager Kerrie Little and a NZ Police representative.

“If there’s an area in your neighbourhood that could benefit from a CCTV camera, we’d encourage you to apply – even if you’ve tried in previous years,” said Little.

Having communities identify priority areas helps ensure the fund is used where it’s most effective, she said.

“Locals know their spaces best – where people gather, where issues tend to happen, and where an extra camera could help provide reassurance. It’s that on-the-ground knowledge that really guides good decisions.”

New camera locations from the 2024 fund were the Poripori Rd swimming hole carpark; Steele Rd/Athenree Rd intersection; Pongakawa Station Rd/Old Coach Rd intersection; and Plummers Point Rd near Pats Lane.

Completed forms can be emailed to [email protected] – with the subject 2025 CCTV Fund – or dropped off at WBOPDC library and service centres at Waihī Beach, Katikati, Ōmokoroa, Barkes Corner or Te Puke.

For application forms and full details, visit: westernbay.govt.nz/cctvfund.

Applications close at 5pm on Friday, November 14.