CCTV has evolved - fast. What was once just a way to record footage is now a smart, proactive tool that can detect, analyse, and alert you to activity in real time.
At Cornerstone Security, we’re helping businesses across New Zealand harness the power of AI-driven CCTV to better protect their people, property, and operations. With features like human and vehicle detection, smart alerts, number plate recognition, and even health and safety monitoring, AI is changing the game for commercial security. We are no longer limited to single camera viewing; we can search for persons across the entire organisation’s CCTV cameras.
WHAT MAKES AI CCTV DIFFERENT?
Traditional systems rely on people to watch live feeds or review footage after something happens. AI-powered systems do much more - they recognise what they’re seeing, filter out irrelevant movement, and alert you the moment something’s wrong.
That means:
Faster CCTV footage search times
Active interaction with developing situations
Smarter decision-making
Faster dissemination of search results
HERE’S A QUICK LOOK AT THE AI-POWERED FEATURES OUR CUSTOMERS ARE ASKING FOR MOST.
Health & Safety Monitoring
AI CCTV can support your workplace health and safety goals by identifying:
People in restricted areas
Missing PPE (e.g. no hi-vis or helmet)
Slips, trips, or prolonged inactivity
Some systems even integrate with health and safety workflows - helping you reduce risk, meet compliance standards, and create a safer work environment.
Facial Recognition
In secure environments, facial recognition can help track authorised personnel, manage building access, or flag unknown visitors. It’s especially useful in multi-tenant buildings, staff-only zones, or high-security areas.
(We also offer privacy features, such as face blurring, to help you stay compliant with privacy laws.)
Active Deterrence
Some camera models come with strobes, microphones, and speakers that can be used to play a pre-recorded message or allow two-way communication. These can also be automated - for example, if someone walks up your driveway after 10pm, a strobe can flash, and a message can play: “Warning: You are being monitored.”
It’s a highly effective way to deter unwanted visitors before they get too close.
Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR)
Cameras can automatically read and log vehicle licence plates - ideal for gated carparks, delivery yards, and fleet management. You can even set rules (e.g. allow staff vehicles, alert on unknown plates) to automate access and improve record-keeping.
Human & Vehicle Detection
AI-enabled cameras can distinguish between a person, a vehicle, or something harmless like a bird or swaying tree. You can choose to record or receive alerts only when relevant activity occurs, which helps cut down on false alarms and unnecessary footage.
Intrusion Zones & Virtual Tripwires
We can set up virtual lines or zones on screen - such as around a gate, perimeter fence, or restricted area. If someone crosses that line or enters the zone after hours, you’ll get an instant alert. It’s like having a digital security guard watching key areas 24/7.
Object Search
Need to find a red car or a person with a backpack? AI makes it easy to search for specific objects or characteristics, so you don’t waste time scrubbing through hours of footage.
SMART CAMERAS vs VMS
Many modern cameras now come with built-in AI, which means they can detect and respond to events right out of the box - and they’re more accessible than ever.
However, you can unlock AI features with even basic cameras by pairing them with a smart Video Management System (VMS). This is a great option if you're upgrading an existing setup and want the benefits of AI without replacing all your hardware.
One of the most powerful and user-friendly VMS platforms we recommend is NX Witness. It offers:
Smart search by object, colour, or movement
Instant alerts via phone or email
Integration with multiple cameras and locations
Easy tagging and exporting of footage for audits or investigations
NX Witness works with many camera brands and setups, making it a flexible, cost-effective upgrade for businesses wanting a smarter system.
READY TO MAKE THE SMART MOVE?
Whether you manage a single site or multiple locations, AI-powered CCTV can give you more control, better visibility, and smarter security overall.
At Cornerstone Security, we’ll help you:
Determine whether AI-enabled cameras or a smart VMS best suits your site and budget
Set up intelligent detection zones, alerts, and reporting
Integrate your system with access control or platforms like NX Witness
Stay compliant with privacy and workplace safety regulations
AI isn’t just a future upgrade - it’s becoming the new standard in commercial CCTV. Whether you're looking to improve security, reduce manual monitoring, or enhance site safety, we’re here to help.
📞 Ready to upgrade your CCTV? Contact us today to book a free consultation. Let’s explore how AI can make your business safer, smarter, and more secure
