An Auckland community leader says mandatory police body cameras would help everyone.

David Letele is behind a petition calling for the change - a petition that's garnered nearly 10,000 signatures so far.

A 45 year-old man died a week ago at Auckland's Ōrere Point, after he and another person fled police. 

Faasala Samu Matue lost consciousness after being tasered and pepper-sprayed - when he threatened police and bit an officer’s hand.

Letele says body cameras are a no-brainer.

"These body cams - it's not just for the safety and accountability for the public, but it also keeps the police safe."

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