16 Jan 2013

Kawhia meeting

8:23 am on 16 January 2013

A resident of Kawhia says a meeting to discuss issues of concern in the town following an attack on the police officer there, achieved what it set out to.

Constable Perry Griffen was attacked by a number of people while trying to arrest a man on Friday evening, as a large crowd of people looked on.

Four issues came up - lack of jobs, boredom among young people, alcohol and drugs.

Resident Jane Rutherford said the problems in a town like Kawhia are common throughout the country.

Support for Constable Griffen was strong at the meeting and Ms Rutherford said people want Constable Griffen and his wife to return as soon as possible.