Newmarket's cameras will follow city's security trend

Newmarket streets will soon be monitored around the clock by security cameras in a move to deter crime and ensure that the Auckland suburb's commercial hub continues to thrive.

Yesterday the executive committee of the Newmarket Business Association committed to purchasing and installing eight wireless surveillance cameras.

"Our cameras will be a huge deterrent to anti-social behaviour and illegal activity," said association general manager Cameron Brewer.

"We have a reputation as the premier retail destination in New Zealand to protect."

The organisation has agreed to put up $142,500, including a $30,000 grant from the Hobson Community Board, for the project. The cameras should be in use within 60 days.

Mr Brewer said the move was not a response to increasing levels of crime.

"It's part of our security strategy. It's important to be ever-vigilant."

The only opposition to the cameras would be from civil libertarians and people with something to hide, he said.

"[The cameras] are only there to overview the precinct and to monitor suspicious activity."

The association is required to present its proposal to the Privacy Commissioner.

"We will be working with the police and the community on where the cameras should go," Mr Brewer said.

The move follows similar plans in the CBD, Glen Innes and Otahuhu.