• Sixty-eight CCTV cameras now live across Invercargill and Bluff to improve public safety
• Footage is recorded 24 hours a day and kept securely for up to three months
• Council and Police say the project will help deter crime and assist investigations
A new CCTV network is now up and running in Invercargill and Bluff, completing the first stage of a major safety initiative led by Invercargill City Council. The project aims to create safer public spaces for both residents and visitors.
The Council committed $2.3 million to the development of the system, which includes 68 cameras placed across 23 sites in the CBD, South City and Stirling Point in Bluff. These high-resolution cameras record live footage around the clock, with video stored for three months before being deleted.
Council Group Manager Infrastructure Erin Moogan said the new cameras would have a dual benefit.
“These cameras would not only have the immediate effect of deterring crime but also act as an investigative tool for Police to address criminal activity more effectively,” she said.
“Safe public spaces increase the quality of life for our community members as well as supporting local businesses through local spending.”
While Police have access to a live feed, they must submit a formal request to obtain any saved footage.
“Council has a dedicated process request for and provision of this information, and appropriate measures are in place to ensure the integrity and security of the data,” Moogan said.
“We’ve heard what the community has been saying and I’m pleased that we have now delivered this project to offer peace of mind to not only those who live here, but visitors to our city as well.”
Southland Area Commander Inspector Mike Bowman welcomed the new network and said it was a positive step for the region.
“We are certainly hoping they will provide the community some added reassurance and that these cameras will actively deter criminal activity,” he said.
“It certainly aligns with the goal of trying to make Southland one of the safest areas in New Zealand.”
He also acknowledged the work that went into the project.
“It’s been a fantastic collaboration with Police and Invercargill City Council over a number of years to get to this point.”