Despite the Times-Age receiving several complaints from readers relating to unauthorised street and drag racing in the region, police say there has been “no steady increase over time, with the number fluctuating month-to-month”.
Data recently supplied to the Times-Age by police said in August 2023, there were 15 such events recorded within Wairarapa Police Area boundary, eight of which were responded to by police.
These events were reported via many sources – not just via phone – and may have included “officer-discovered events”, a police spokesperson said
Of the 15 events, two were within the Carterton police station boundary and 13 were within the Masterton police station boundary.
There was not any particular street that had more such events than others.
“Policing by its very nature requires constant prioritisation of resources to respond to emergency demand,” the spokesperson said.
“Police will always prioritise and attend the jobs where people’s lives or safety are in danger.
“In the 2023 calendar year, in Wairarapa Area, the number of such events has been, on average, 15 per month, ranging from 10 in March to 22 in July; however, there is no steady increase over time with the number fluctuating month-to-month.”
Police still urge the community to keep reporting this type of activity by calling 111, and not to approach those participating in such behaviour.
