Newmarket Business Association

Media release

Sunday 25 November 2007

Newmarket to get wireless CCTV cameras and Wi-Fi

Auckland’s leading retail precinct and second commercial business district will soon have a network of state-of-the-art wireless security cameras watching over its streets 24/7 in what is being described as a first for New Zealand.

Using the very latest in wireless and CCTV camera technology, images from Newmarket’s central streets will be beamed into the Newmarket Police Station on Remuera Road, where they will be monitored.

“This is a truly unique public-private partnership. Never before has a wireless CCTV system been done on this scale in a New Zealand town centre. It’s a huge collaboration with every one after the same result. It brings together the business association, commercial building owners, the local police, a reputable security company, and the privacy commissioner,” says Cameron Brewer, general manager of the Newmarket Business Association and project leader.    

The Newmarket Business Association has signed a contract with CCTV installer and security company, Advanced Security Group Limited. Advanced Security will own and maintain the network of cameras and monitoring equipment, with the business association paying a service monthly fee. 

“Our service-based contract is a relatively low risk one for the commercial ratepayer. We pay a regular and set service fee once the system is fully operational and performing to expectations. Advanced Security remains the owner and manager of the system with the Newmarket business community the client. What’s more, we will pay for the Newmarket Police Station to be manned by monitoring personnel,” said Mr Brewer.  

“As well as the big deterrence factor and the crime fighting benefits the CCTV system will bring, it will also mean a wireless network for Newmarket. We will be a Wi-Fi hotspot and so people will soon be able to bring their laptops to Newmarket and get on the internet without plugging anything in.”

Mr Brewer says this has been a tough and lengthy project for the Newmarket Business Association to pull together, but the end result will be great for everyone.

“Only those with something to hide will have anything to fear. It will be great for our customers and our employees, not to mention Newmarket’s increasingly popular night spots. It will be a great tool for public safety but also good for business, giving Newmarket another competitive edge.”

The arrival of the CCTV cameras is a key component of Newmarket’s security strategy which includes a zero tolerance graffiti programme, an alcohol accord, and a daytime security patrol. 

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