Andrew Dickens: Facial recognition – the rise of Big Brother or a necessary tool?

Bunnings have begun rolling out facial recognition technology in its New Zealand stores, saying it's needed to protect staff and customers because violent incidents continue to rise, despite the fact we've got tough on crime, and we've had a bit of a crackdown. The first two stores to switch on the facial recognition technology are in Te Rapa and Hamilton South, both in the Waikato, but a nationwide rollout is planned. The company says the technology will help identify serious repeat offenders, it will reduce theft, and they do this after what they say is a sharp increase in threatening behaviour.

Chris Lynch: Major retailers back facial recognition tech to combat crime

Major New Zealand retailers have thrown their support behind the use of facial recognition technology (FRT) in stores, saying it is a vital tool to protect workers and customers from repeat offenders responsible for theft, violence, and abuse.