17 December 2018
Media: Rotorua Daily Post
Topic: Man approaching women in forest
Enquiry
Daily Post following up on man approaching women in forest after a man was issued with a trespass notice.
Response
Joint response provided by police and Council:
From Inspector Anaru Pewhairangi:
Rotorua Police and Rotorua Lakes Council are working together to ensure that the Redwoods, and all of Rotorua's public spaces, are safe for everyone. No one should have to feel afraid while they're out enjoying outdoor activity.
On Thursday afternoon Police were contacted about a man who was reported to be exhibiting unusual behaviour in the Redwoods in Rotorua. Prior to that no official reports had been received. Police and Council also became aware of social media activity about suspicious behaviour in the Redwoods. Two detectives in Rotorua saw this online activity and were concerned enough to visit the Redwoods in search of this man.
On Friday, Police and Council began the process of issuing a trespass notice against this man. The notice has now been served.
If you are heading out for a walk or run in the bush, we recommend you take a phone with you and let someone know where you're going.
If you are ever feeling threatened, regardless of what's happened or where, call Police on 111.
From Rob Pitkethley, council's manager Sport, Recreation and Environment:
"The safety of people using council owned or managed recreational areas, including the Redwoods and wider Whakarewarewa Forest area, is paramount," Rotorua Lakes Council Kaihautū Mahi Rēhia | Sport, Recreation and Environment Manager Rob Pitkethley says.
"The forest in particular is hugely popular with many locals as well as visitors and we work with police to ensure the ongoing safety of users. We'll continue to work with police to monitor the area to ensure it remains a safe place for all to enjoy."