Michael Hill stores are set to have an increased security guard presence after a spate of robberies.
Chief executive Daniel Bracken said the investment in security has come after incidents at both its Northwest and Onehunga stores in Auckland.
Both incidents, which occurred last month, involved people targeting Michael Hill stores in a smash-and-grab style robbery.
In Onehunga, one witness said the offenders were carrying an item which looked like a machete. In the Northwest incident, offenders smashed cabinets at the store, and left in a vehicle which was later located abandoned in nearby Regents Park.
Over the past 12 months, Michael Hill has invested in what Bracken calls a “comprehensive safeguarding framework”.
This includes measures such as smash-proof assault glass, fog cannons, alarm screamers, personal alarms for staff, additional security cameras and the use of DNA spray technology.
“Michael Hill continues to work closely with New Zealand Police to aid investigations and the apprehension of offenders, whilst collaborating on longer-term safety and security plans.”
Bracken added the key priority for the business is ensuring the protection of team members, customers and visitors.
“Support will be offered to all of those who experienced these incidents. We remain committed to ensuring our stores have the best security and safeguarding measures in place to deter these incidents from occurring.”