Rotorua has highest level of crime in New Zealand, Selwyn the lowest - analysis

05/11/2020
Alice Wilkins

Analysis of New Zealand crime data has shown Rotorua has the highest crime rate in the country.

Data analysis company Dot Loves Data has examined reported crime from the past five years.

It found that despite its reputation as a tourism hotspot, Rotorua is actually a 'problem spot' for crime - topping a list of New Zealand locations with the highest crime level.

Figures show there is a correlation between crime rate and deprivation. Photo credit: Dot Loves Data

"The South Island [has] generally, much safer communities, lower levels of crime," Justin Lester of Dot Loves Data explained.

"In comparison the North Island [has] much higher levels of crime, particularly in those areas where there is greater inequality and higher levels of deprivation."

Rotorua was top of the list, with the highest crime level per capita, followed by Napier, Palmerston North, Hamilton and Taupo.

The lowest crime level was in Selwyn in Canterbury, followed by Central Otago, Southland, the Mackenzie District and Waimate.

Lester says there's a really strong correlation between crime levels and levels of deprivation. He said those living in financial hardship were up to five times more likely to experience crime.