Safety tips
The following tips will help you stay safer in the city at night:
- Stick with your friends and to well-lit areas with more people
- Avoid taking shortcuts through vacant blocks, parks or alleys
- Arrange for someone to pick you up or take a taxi home rather than walking home alone at night
- If you feel uneasy about a person's behaviour, confidently cross the street or go into places where there are other people
- Remember the liquor ban that applies in public places
Safe in the City campaign
The Safe in the City campaign reminds you to 'Stick with your Mates' when out in the city at night. The campaign is aimed at increasing awareness of personal safety when out drinking and partying in the city. Wellington City Council runs the campaign in partnership with the Police and ACC.
Protecting money and valuables
Commonsense precautions will help protect your cash and valuable property.
- Keep bags close to your body, and make sure they are fastened shut.
- Don't leave bags, wallets or cameras unattended.
- If you use an ATM at night, choose a well-lit place with people around. Remember to shield your PIN number and put your money away quickly.
- Trust your instincts - if you feel uncomfortable, don't withdraw money.
- Use a money belt if you have one.
Resource packs
If you would like a resource pack with more safety information call the Council on (04) 499 4444.
Alternatively, you can print out the safety poster and tips below.
Host responsibility
Everyone is responsible for safety. If you are having a party, BBQ or celebration, here are some tips to help keep your guests safer:
- Be a great host and serve alcohol responsibly
- Don't serve alcohol to drunk people
- Don't serve alcohol to people under 18 years (unless parental consent and supervision is provided)
- Offer low and non-alcoholic drinks
- Provide food that is tasty and filling
- Promote safe transport options for your guests, including calling taxis or Dial-a-Driver
- Ensure those serving alcohol are aware of these tips
Getting help
Local Hosts
For general help or information, you can approach Wellington's Local Hosts - you'll see them walking around town in green and black uniforms. Local Hosts know the city well and are friendly ambassadors for Wellington.
You can also approach street cleaners or staff in restaurants, bars and shops and ask them for on-the-spot assistance.
Emergencies
In an emergency, call 111 for police, fire or ambulance. 111 calls are free from cellphones, landlines and phone boxes.
New Zealand police are approachable on the street, or you can go to the nearest police station.