Wardens help keep Onehunga safe2 min read

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The Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Pacific Wardens are a familiar presence in Onehunga, tirelessly ensuring the safety of the community.

These volunteers patrol Onehunga, Glen Innes, and Panmure on busy Friday and Saturday nights, handling issues like speeding scooters, fights, and public drinking. Thanks to recent funding from the Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Local Board, the wardens have now secured essential equipment like torches and uniforms, with additional support from the Tāmaki Auckland Pacific Wardens.

Many wardens are former rugby players who appear intimidating, but maintain a firm, yet friendly approach. Founded in 2011 by Pastor Richard Takapautolo and Taniela Kaivela, the Maungakiekie-Tāmaki Pacific Wardens Trust (MTPWT) works closely with the New Zealand Police and Auckland Council. All wardens are vetted volunteers with basic police training, acting as the eyes and ears of the police.

While they help everyone, they focus on Māori and Pasifika youth, using a community-focused approach to de-escalate situations before police involvement. Speaking languages like Samoan, Tongan, and Fijian, helps the wardens build familial connections with the youth. “When we spot teens up to no good, we talk to them in their own language, so it’s as if they are talking to their own family,” says Richard.

The wardens prioritise crime prevention, but will contact the police if necessary. Their efforts have led to the apprehension of criminals involved in ram raids and burglaries, and they have even intervened in life-threatening situations, such as helping a man in danger of self-harm.

“It’s days like that you really know you have made a difference,” says Richard.

Often called upon by the police and Auckland Council during busy periods or special events, Richard and the team use these opportunities to engage with the community and encourage youth participation in the wardens’ work. “We take the chance to talk to young people, shake their hands, and encourage them to join the wardens in the future. We’d love to see more young people walking alongside us.”