A resident in Parklands believes a foster home in the community is to blame for the increase of youth crime in the suburb.

Chris Lynch Media has reported extensively on the crime wave plaguing Parklands, after receiving multiple emails from residents frustrated nothing has been done to crackdown on the problem.

Youths have smashed into parked cars at night, residents have chased two young boys after crashing a stolen car in the neighbourhood, and a community meeting was held where residents voiced their frustration at what is happening in their suburb.

A longtime resident of Parklands, who wished to remain anonymous, believes that a significant portion of the crime originates from a Barnardos foster home, which is run by Oranga Tamariki.

Barnardos New Zealand is an organisation that looks after vulnerable children. When contacted for comment, a spokesperson from the organisation referred all questions to Oranga Tamariki.

“None of the residents in the neighbourhood were informed about the establishment of this operation, the resident said.

“Youth and staff come and go from the property at all hours, and undesirable youth have been caught several times jumping the fence of our immediate neighbours and using our shared driveway.”

The resident says the youths have been terrorising locals, making them feel threatened outside their own homes.

“I often hear motorcycles at night, which is concerning. Criminals may even be using walking tracks within the Burwood plantation, we frequently see motorcycle tracks on the walking paths.

“I strongly believe that a lot of youth networking is taking place there. The police frequently visit, and there is shouting, screaming, fighting, and noise.

“This operation is louder than an engineering shop and so much crazier.”

The resident said when confronted, the youths run away and are rarely caught.

“They cross the street, enter through alleyways and hide in a complex web of paths that are almost inaccessible by car.

“It’s a perfect property for an escape, with the proximity of alleyways and driveways that make it simple to go north, south, east, or west without detection. 

“Although I am not aware of what is happening with the police and this operation, I know they’ve had frequent encounters with the police. “

Oranga Tamariki Regional Manager Canterbury Service Delivery, Kellie Blyth provided the following statement to Chris Lynch Media when contacted about the residents’ concerns.

“This facility provides a home and supportive environment for some of our most vulnerable young people with high and complex needs.

“Oranga Tamariki is aware of the concerns being raised within the community and is working closely with the provider to address these concerns.”