Security guards are a familiar sight in New Zealand, patrolling buildings, events, and public spaces. They provide peace of mind and a layer of protection, however, it’s important to understand the scope of their authority and what security guards can and can’t do in New Zealand.
Let’s take a look at the common misconceptions about security guards and why a qualified security guard remains a vital asset for ensuring the safety of your business, construction site, or event.
Common Security Guard Misconceptions
Security guards have a lot of power
Despite what you may think, security guards in New Zealand actually don’t possess any special legal powers above those of an ordinary citizen. This means that their capacity to act is based on the same laws that apply to any member of the public.
The primary role of a security guard includes protecting property, maintaining order, and ensuring the safety of individuals on the premises they are guarding.
They’re allowed to use force
Security guards are allowed to use force to prevent crime or arrest offenders, just like any citizen, but it must be reasonable and justified. The use of any force should only be the minimum amount necessary to ensure safety or detain a person committing an offence until the police arrive.
Although they can’t use excessive force, security guards are well-trained in situations that require detainment of some kind; that’s why it’s best to leave this kind of thing to the professionals to ensure the safety of everyone involved.
They can search people
Unlike police officers, security guards don’t have the authority to conduct searches of people or their belongings. They can request to check a bag or conduct a search as a condition of entry to a venue or property (with proper signage or prior warning), but this is based on obtaining consent first.
Security guards can’t forcibly conduct a search if consent is denied, but don’t worry, they can still deny entry to your business, site, or event. They quite literally act as gatekeepers to ensure the safety of everyone present.
Security guards can carry guns
This isn’t true at all. In New Zealand, security guards are generally prohibited from carrying firearms.
Security guards can arrest people
This is a common misconception when it comes to what security guards can and can’t do in New Zealand, and it relates back to the false belief that security guards have the same power as police officers.
Security guards don’t have the same comprehensive powers of arrest as the police—they can detain individuals but are limited to making a citizen’s arrest under clear circumstances, such as observing a crime in progress.
Security Guard Training Requirements
To become a security guard in New Zealand, there are several requirements and training programmes that need to be completed to make sure they can handle every situation safely and legally.
Security guards undergo rigorous training in areas like:
Conflict resolution and de-escalation: Security guards are skilled at defusing tense situations and preventing them from escalating into violence.
First aid and CPR: They learn first aid and CPR best practices so that they can provide immediate medical assistance in emergencies.
Fire safety and emergency procedures: Security guards are trained to make sure that everyone is safe in the case of a fire or other emergency crisis.
Observation and surveillance: Their keen eye helps them detect suspicious activity and potential threats before they become a problem.
Communication and reporting: Security can clearly communicate incidents and effectively report them to the necessary authorities.
Why Hire Security Guards?
Although what security guards can and can’t do in New Zealand makes them very different from police officers, they are still absolutely necessary when it comes to keeping your place of business, construction site, or large-scale event safe.
Here’s why you should hire a security guard in New Zealand:
1. They provide a strong deterrent effect
The presence of security guards on site acts as a deterrent to any criminal behaviour. Potential offenders are less likely to target a property or event that is clearly under surveillance and closely guarded.
2. They are trained to handle emergencies
As we mentioned, security guards are trained to handle a variety of emergencies, including threats of violence, medical emergencies, and natural disasters. Their presence helps to ensure that there’s someone on site who can manage any crisis effectively until additional help arrives.
3. They offer professionalism and authority
Security guards in New Zealand project an air of authority and professionalism that can boost the reputation of your business or event. They’re trained to interact with the public in a polite and professional way, manage crowds, and handle any conflicts calmly.
4. They provide a quick response
In the event of an incident, having a team of security guards on site means there is an immediate response even before police arrive. This can be crucial in preventing damage or escalating situations, as security guards can detain individuals or calm growing tensions to avoid harm to others in the area.
Choosing the Right Security Company
If you’re looking to enhance security, deter crime, and ensure the well-being of your staff, customers, or event attendees, partnering with a reputable security company is essential. You’ll want to make sure that the security guards you work with are trained and experienced so you can focus on your business activities or hosting a successful event.
Frontline Security has been in the industry since 2015, and we have a solid reputation for providing our clients with excellent service and protection. All of our security guards have professional certifications and have undergone extensive training to carry out their duties for companies and events of all sizes.
Our security guards have plenty of experience when it comes to knowing when to take initiative and when to follow the rules. They know how to follow the required procedures and use sound judgement when necessary to neutralise a potential threat.
With us, you can relax knowing that you, your team, and your customers are in good, safe hands.
We work with you every step of the way to make sure that high levels of safety standards are met.
If you need to hire security guards in New Zealand for your next event, to protect your worksite, or to ensure the safety of your commercial property, choose Frontline Security. Get in touch with us today to get started.