90-Year-Old Volunteer Keeps Katikati Safe on Night Patrol

Murray Tom is not your average nonagenarian. At 90, the vintage car enthusiast still holds a class-four driver's licence, spends his days restoring classic vehicles on his lifestyle block on the outskirts of Katikati, and volunteers with Katikati Community Patrol. Having moved to the area 18 months ago, Tom says he wanted to give something back to his new home.

After connecting with community patrol team leader Ross Sutherland, Tom signed up to spend several nights a month acting as the eyes and ears of the police. He is particularly concerned about the level of burglary in Katikati, especially in rural areas, and says the simple presence of a patrol car is often enough to deter suspicious activity.

Tom has lived a remarkable life across farming, sales, fishing, shearing and business ownership — though a serious accident in his younger years, which left him with a broken spine and ribs, forced him to rebuild his career from scratch. He credits his longevity to fresh air, red meat, and keeping active. "If you sit down and retire, that's when you go," he said.

Katikati Community Patrol covers the area from Tanners Point to Morton Rd through day and night three-hour shifts. Volunteers remain in the patrol vehicle, which is equipped with technology to stay in contact with police. Anyone interested in joining can phone 021 301 339 or email katikati@cpnz.org.nz.

Originally published in Katikati News (Sun Media).