A Papakura dairy owner, who suffered a violent attack last year, has installed a high-security gate to control customer access, ensuring safety for staff and customers, The New Zealand Herald reported.
The Wilson Superette now requires customers to press a buzzer on a heavy metal gate, where they are inspected via security cameras before being allowed inside.
The owner, who wished to remain anonymous, said the measures were necessary after a traumatic attack left him with a broken nose.
“Six or seven boys ramraided us during the day and smashed my husband’s face, stole smokes and whatever they could,” the man’s wife told the Herald.
“He was shouting for help, but no one could hear. It was too much and such a bad time for our family,” she added.
Shaken by the incident, the couple researched various security solutions and decided on a combination of measures, including the gate, camera, buzzer, fog cannons, and bollards outside the shop.
The changes have been well-received by their customers, who understand the importance of the precautions.
“It’s a bit of a delay for customers, but it is working well,” the wife said.
The security gate has already proven effective. Intoxicated customers and those wearing masks have been denied entry, and a recent shoplifting attempt was thwarted when the gate prevented the offender from leaving.
The couple has also reduced stocks of high-risk items such as vapes and cigarettes, further lowering their risk of theft.
A TikTok video showcasing the new entry process has garnered significant attention, with more than 125,000 views.
The dairy’s upgraded security comes amid a broader decline in ram raids across New Zealand. Police data shows a significant reduction, with only 12 ram raids reported in April 2024 compared to 64 in April 2023.
The total number of ram raids has dropped from 433 in 2022 to 288 in 2023, with just 67 reported in the first four months of this year.
Despite the downward trend, the Papakura dairy owners remain vigilant, ensuring their shop is secure and their family is safe.