Child sex offender being 'managed' in community

South Auckland police are reassuring their community a child sex offender released into the community is being "effectively managed".

Otara residents have threatened vigilante action after learning the man was living in the area, near three schools and six kohanga reo.

Area Commander for East Counties Manukau Inspector Jim Searle said it was not the role of police to be involved in the placement of offenders in the community.

"(But) police take their responsibility for keeping communities safe seriously," he said.

"We understand that there is anxiety in the community but we would like to assure them that we are working with (the) Probation (Service) to ensure that the person involved is effectively managed."

Otara had the added benefit of a Neighbourhood Policing Team, which comprised six officers who had a visible presence in the community and close relationships with local schools, community groups and families.

"The team is focused on working alongside the community to find solutions to crime and to generally keep the neighbourhood safe," Mr Searle said.

"We believe these relationships stand us in good stead in terms of managing this particular situation."

The Corrections Department told Radio New Zealand it would protect the man from a witch hunt.