A Moerewa resident says the community plans to meet with gang members in a bid to help reduce recent crime in the Northland town.
A meeting was called on Thursday night in response to several fires lit in stolen cars near the local school and an assault involving gunshots and a stabbing on 1 February.
Community spokesperson Peeni Henare says about 100 people, including police and gang members, attended the meeting.
He says some community members want to sit down with gang members, without police, and help them to become active members of the community in a positive way.
Mr Henare says the meeting also discussed ways to tackle drug, alcohol and unemployment issues in the region.
A patched gang member apologised for recent criminal activity at Thursday's meeting.
