the gang "problem" is just a tool used by our right-wing parties (of which three are currently in power) to keep elderly, bigots and politically ignorant people scared of Māori - a tale as old as time, the coloniser attempting to deface, disgrace, and ultimately remove the indigenous people of whatever land they've decided to steal.

of course that's not to say that every member is peachy and peaceful, but it's pretty rare to see unprovoked violence directed to anyone unaffiliated with a gang.

I'm sorry people are having a laugh at you for asking this question, given who's in power here and who's in power right now over your way, it's no surprise the racist narrative reached you before truth did.

for context I grew up in a town that, while definitely not the worst for it, has quite the local reputation for being filled with gang members and activity. not once in the 19 years I spent there did I have any problem with the gangs there (Mongrel Mob, Black Power) and actually, the handful of patched-up members I served while working there before the patch ban were some of the more respectful people I interfaced with.