Whakatāne police’s new “Retail Beat team” have begun foot patrols across the Eastern Bay, engaging directly with local businesses.

Acting Sergeant Dave De Langen, who leads the team alongside officers Caitlin Cornelissen and Rangi Rapana, said the focus was on visibility and connection.

“It’s essentially day one today (Wednesday) … we’re happy to get out there and walk through town, meet the shopkeepers and find out what the issues are,” he said.

“We’re approachable, so just come and have a chat. If you see us, come and talk to us.”

The team will provide a visible presence in town centres and target retail crime, particularly shoplifting, across Whakatāne’s CBD, Kopeopeo and the Hub, as well as retail centres across the Eastern Bay, including Kawerau and Ōpōtiki.

Senior Sergeant Cam Mackinnon said the initiative aimed to make police more accessible in the town centres.

“People often see a lot of patrol cars driving around, but they don’t see enough of the human face of the police in town.

“They’re there as a visible deterrent, to support the retailers, support the community, but also catch and apprehend those amongst us who are not so honest.”

Retailers have welcomed the renewed presence.

“It’s just really nice to see their presence back in town, and hopefully… keeping our streets safe.

“We’ve missed them,” said Jewelz Whakatāne owner Angelia Le Sueur.

“People will see some offenders being held to account for shoplifting. Hopefully we can get those numbers down,” Mr De Langen said.

The beat team will operate a range of shifts, including weekends and hours aligning with peak retail periods.

Police are encouraging business owners and the public to engage with officers as patrols continue.

The term “Beat Cop” is a traditional policing term for officers patrolling a designated area on foot.