A new police organised crime team covering Central has had “some success” in its first two months, Otago Lakes Central Area Commander Inspector Paula Enoka said.

The team is focused on organised crime, and covers drugs, firearms and anti-social groups or gangs. 

“It’s focused on preventing harm of this type… and keeping the community safe.”

Paula said since the team started in early July, there had already been “some success” and “movement in this space”.

Working in organised crime involved a long process of evidence gathering and background due diligence. 

Paula said as there is a focus on organised crime members of the community may hear about it more than previously. 

She said she understood people are interested in what police are doing to help keep people safe. 

Along with a concerted focus on organised crime, her team of around 130 officers are staying close to the issues of roads and alcohol in Central.  

“Central Otago is a destination; every part of it is somewhere someone will come and holiday and this won't diminish.”

Working with licensed premises to keep the sale and supply of alcohol safe is also paramount for Central, and in keeping with our “destination location” setting. 

“Central is a lovely environment to be in… [just] look at your surroundings through the eyes of [our] visitors,” Paula said.

Supporting all members of the community in a visible way is another priority for local police.

This year Queenstown’s police station will be sporting rainbow lights during the 2022 Winter Pride Festival.

The lights, from the team behind Lumify, are a creative way to highlight the station as a beacon of community safety during the festival (August 26 - September 4). 

Paula at the formal pōwhiri welcoming her to the area commander role for Otago Lakes Central at Dunstan High School last year. PHOTO: Supplied