Figures show cities with worst crime rates

Wanganui is the murder capital of New Zealand and Wairarapa the worst for rapes according to an analysis of crime statistics released today.

The figures, compiled by the Dominion Post based on the crime rate per 10,000 people in 2005, also reveal that you are more likely to be a victim of aggravated robbery in Auckland, have your car broken into in Hamilton, and kidnapped in the eastern Bay of Plenty.

Wanganui topped the murder stats with two killings last year followed by Taupo, Upper Hutt and Gisborne.

Wairarapa led the rape stats with 9 per 10,000 ahead of Christchurch and Upper Hutt each with 6 per 10,000.

Gisborne was the leading centre for domestic violence with 47 incidents per 10,000 and Marlborough led cannabis usage -- 84 per 10,000.

Methamphetamine offences was highest in the Far North and business premises and homes in Rotorua -- 301 incidents per 10,000 population -- would need to have the best locks in the country, burglary statistics showed.

Rotorua also led the serious assaults category on 85. Gisborne and South Auckland were next on 80 and 73 respectively.

Cars thefts were most common in Hamilton with 159 taken per 10,000 people.

- NZPA

* An earlier version of this story incorrectly stated Rotorua had the worst record for rapes.