Preventing Ram Raids - How Security Gates and Bollards Can Protect Your Business

In recent years, ram raids have become an increasing threat for retailers and commercial property owners in Auckland and across New Zealand. These incidents involve offenders using vehicles to smash through shopfronts, roller doors or entry gates to gain access to valuable goods in seconds. The damage can be catastrophic, not just in terms of stolen stock but also in costly repairs, insurance claims and business downtime.

One of the most effective ways to reduce the risk of a ram raid is to install a combination of security gates and bollards. Together, they create a physical barrier that is both visible and resistant to high impact attempts, making your business a far less attractive target.

Understanding the Ram Raid Threat

Ram raids are fast, violent and opportunistic. Criminals typically target businesses that have easy vehicle access to their entrance, minimal security barriers and high-value goods on display. Common targets include jewellery stores, electronics retailers, convenience stores and service stations.

These crimes often take place in the early hours of the morning when foot traffic is low and police response times may be longer. Even if offenders fail to steal goods, the property damage alone can be enough to disrupt operations for weeks.

Why Physical Barriers are Critical

While alarms and CCTV are valuable deterrents and evidence-gathering tools, they do not physically stop a vehicle from entering your premises. A determined ram raid attempt can break through glass, roller doors and even lightweight security grilles.

Physical barriers like security gates and bollards are designed to absorb or resist vehicle impact. They create a secure perimeter that makes it significantly harder for offenders to breach your property, buying valuable time for alarms to trigger and police to respond.

How Security Gates Protect Your Business

Security gates provide a strong, visible deterrent to ram raids. When designed and installed correctly, they can withstand significant force, stopping a vehicle in its tracks.