Raetihi crime discussed at marae

Waimarino Bulletin, Volume 5, Issue 11, 11 August 1987, Page 1

Raetihi crime discussed at marae

The success of Raetihi's bid to prevent crime depends largely on the community, according to Whakangahau Trust spokesman Bill Pehi. Mr Pehi initiated a public meeting held on the Raetihi Marae on Sunday after-

noon which was attended by about 40 people, Maori and Pakeha, of all ages. Mr Pehi said he began the meeting by identifying Raetihi's crime situation as a Maori problem, before giving those present the opportunity to air their views. This included the half dozen teenagers who attended the meeting, who were either directly or indirectly involved with past criminal activity. The youngsters were encouraged to attend by Mr Pehi, who said they had valuable input to the discussion and their attendance was a positive step towards overcoming the crime problem. The meeting lasted three and a half hours and finished on a positive note according to Mr Pehi. The group will be approaching the business sector and the community in the near future to rally for further support which may include finance, as the Whakangahau Trust is presently carrying the financial burden. The trust has been carrying on surveillance work in the town three nights a week for the past two weeks and Mr Pehi is hopeful more people will offer their support for the group. "Success will depend entirely on the community pulling together," he said. "Hopefully they will stick together and get something really worthwhile working for our town." Mr Pehi said they have the full backing of the Maori wardens, which is one more plus for the group and may help them to succeed.