Media Release
26 February 2009

Manukau launches 0800 number to report taggers

Manukau City Council has launched an 0800 number, 0800 STOP TAGS, for residents to report details of a tagging offender. A resident of Manukau spotting a tagger defacing a wall or fence can now call up 0800 STOP TAGS (0800 7867 8247) and report details of the tagger, his/her address, or the vehicle involved. Alternatively, taggers can be reported by email (stoptags@ihug.co.nz) or by text to 0276 56 0008.

This is a dedicated phone line specifically set up to capture information that will help in identifying and prosecuting taggers. It will be operated by experienced private investigators. All information will be treated as confidential with informant details not revealed to any third party. The council may reward the informant if the information results in successful prosecution of graffiti vandalism offenders.

The council encourages general public in Manukau to report any relevant information that will help identify taggers, says the council's portfolio leader for community safety, Councillor Dick Quax. "I am sure many school students, neighbours, parents and business-owners will have this information but do not know who to contact."

The council spends $100,000 annually on graffiti investigation, in addition to its graffiti eradication, education and beautification initiatives.

This 0800 number is not to be used for requesting removal of graffiti from residential property. Residents who wish to use the council's graffiti removal service should contact the call centre on 262 5104.

ENDS

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