Police perch on two wheels for lakefront patrols

Photo / Alan Gibson

Inspector Steve Bullock sampled patrolling with a difference yesterday when he tried out one of two Segway scooters lent to Taupo police.

The scooters will allow police to perch above crowds and patrol at speeds of up to 20km/h.

Mr Bullock, the Taupo area commander, said police would use the new toys in public parks and along the lake front. "They will never replace police on the beat or in cars, but they will give us greater flexibility and access during big events,"he said.

As unclassified, battery-powered vehicles, the scooters cannot be used on roads or footpaths. Using a Segway on the road can earn a fine of up to $1000, or $150 for riding on a footpath.

Taupo District Council spokesman Mike Watson said the police were seeking an exemption from the Transport Agency to allow the Segways' use in all areas for law enforcement.

But he said they would mostly be used for the many public events held in Taupo. Their height and speed meant police had a greater presence and could cover large areas.

Mr Bullock said if the scooters helped to prompt people to engage with their local police, it could only be a good thing.

"At the end of the day they're also a bit of fun and we have no doubt that they will generate a lot of interest from children and members of the public."

The Segways have been lent to police by the Taupo Safer Community Trust. They were bought by the Taupo Moana Rotary Club for $13,500 each.

The first deployment will be at the Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge on November 28.