Police News Dec 08.indd - New Zealand Police Association

The Voice of PoliceVOLUME 41 • NUMBER 11 • DECEMBER 2008Merry Christmas!Keep safe out thereduring the holidays■ ASSOCIATION HOSTS ICPRA CONFERENCE■ 74TH ANNUAL CONFERENCE COVERAGE■ NATIONAL’S 10-POINT ACTION PLAN UNVEILED

PoliceNewsThe Voice of PoliceThe Voice of PoliceVOLUME 41 • NUMBER 11 • DECEMBERER 2008278THE 10-POINT ACTION PLAN MANNZ Police Association Police News is the magazine ofthe New Zealand Police Association and incorporates theNew Zealand Police Journal fi rst published in 1937.Editor: Steve PlowmanDecember 2008, Vol. 41, No.11ISSN 1175-9445Deadline for next issue Thursday, January 15, 2009.Published by the New Zealand Police AssociationP.O. Box 12344, Willbank House, 57 Willis Street, Wellington.Phone: (04) 496 6800, Facsmile: (04) 471 1309Email: editor@policeassn.org.nzWebsite: www.policeassn.org.nzPrinted by City Print Communications, Wgtn.Opinions expressed are not necessarily those of theAssociation.COPYRIGHT: NZPA Police News must not be reproduced inpart or as a whole without the formal consent of the copyrightholder - the New Zealand Police Association.ContentsFrom the President 267283FAREWELLING TUI – OUR OWN ACTION WOMANThe comedian in the Police 268Sick Leave Bank 268Changes to ratification procedures for Collective Agreements 269Police Association hosts international policing conference 270-273Police Health Plan compares favourably with other plans 273Judith Collins named as new Police Minister 273The 73rd Annual Conference of the Police Association 274/284The Devils Are Here (Book review) 284View from the bottom 285Keen on Wine 285Sports News 286/290Holiday home availability 290Memorial Wall 290Home buying hints from The National Bank 291288THE ACTION IS ALL DOWN HILL FROM HERE• Front page: Christmas time: The traditional Christmastree has its ‘roots’ in Christianity. Almost a thousand yearsago Saint Boniface, who converted the German people toChristianity, was said to have come across a group of pagansworshipping an oak tree. In anger, St Boniface is said to havecut down the oak tree and to his amazement a young fir treesprung up from the roots of the oak tree. St Boniface took thisas a sign of the Christian faith. But it was not until the 16thcentury that fir trees were brought indoors at Christmas time.Of course, for police officers, Christmas means a very busyand sometimes potentially dangerous time – so be careful outthere and come home safe this holiday season.Special offer – 6 months free home insurance 291Letters to the Editor 292/293Quotes of the month 293Two new retailers for Member Discounts Scheme 294Special accommodation offer for members 294Fancy some free movie tickets? 294Copper’s crossword 295Changes to ratification proceduresfor Collective Agreements - p269266December 2008

New Zealand Police AssociationAll the best to all ofyou from all of usThe management, directors and staff of the Police Association and itssubsidiaries extend to all readers, members and retired members andtheir families their very best wishes for a safe and prosperous Christmasand New Year. Be careful out there…“We have noted the pre-election promises andwill be monitoring and steering their progress,including extra staff for Auckland, but not at theexpense of the rest of the country.”Going the distancein the tough timesThese are volatile times: house pricesare dropping, interest rates down, petrolprices fluctuating madly, unemploymentup, and in the middle of it all a newGovernment.Life will go on, the sun will still come upbut it is important we constantly evaluatethe consequences of these changes toour world. The economic ones are prettymuch out of our control. Although theconservative manner in which we run ourAssociation and other businesses meanswe are in good shape financially, andwill be able to continue to do whatever isnecessary to best represent members.Politically it is another story. We not onlycan but must maintain our role as credibleand well-informed commentators on allthings policing to ensure the voice ofpolice is heard when decisions are beingmade.We welcome and congratulate the newGovernment and look forward to helpingthem implement the policies and otherpromises made prior to the GeneralElection.We strictly maintain our politicalneutrality, being careful to supportpolicies and not political parties.We enjoyed a very good relationship withthe previous Minister of Police who tookup our suggestions to look at policingmodels outside the United Kingdom, aplace with whose policing we seem tohave developed an unhealthy obsession.Importantly, Annette King was highlyranked in Cabinet and in a position topush changes through Government.We only really “fell out” over the banningof police from standing for council. RonMark and NZ First forced that on Labour.It would be nice to think the smallpercentage NZ First were short of their5% threshold was a result of alienatingpolice officers unnecessarily.Other than that, we enjoyed mutual trustwith a very capable Minister.We look forward to having the sameSome ‘interesting’ definitionsADULT: A person who has stopped growing atboth ends and is now growing in the middle.BEAUTY PARLOUR: A place where womencurl up and dye.CANNIBAL: Someone who is fed up withpeople.CHICKENS: The only animals you eat beforethey are born and after they are dead.COMMITTEE: A body that keeps minutes andwastes hours.DUST: Mud with the juice squeezed out.EGOTIST: Someone who is usually me-deep inconversation.HANDKERCHIEF: Cold storage.INFLATION: Cutting money in half withoutdamaging the paper.MOSQUITO: An insect that makes you like fliesbetter.RAISIN: A grape with sunburn.relationship with the incoming Ministerof Police, Judith Collins. We will bebriefing her on the realities of policingtoday as seen by the members, suchinformation not having been first putthrough the bureaucratic sieve.We have noted the pre-election promisesand will be monitoring and steeringtheir progress, including extra staff forAuckland, but not at the expense of therest of the country.If we are to face tough economic times,people must feel physically reassuredand it cannot be an opportunity forcriminals. More, not less public policingbecomes essential, especially as thefunding reduces in society for privatesecurity. We may be about to discoverhow much of the policing shortfall hasbeen taken up by the private sector.I can’t help thinking that New Zealand isgoing to be a very good place to be overthe next few years as the world adjuststo the new economic order. We as policecan do our bit by keeping it safe. Ourrole is to ensure we have the tools to doit.Have a great Christmas. Although mostof us will be working at some stage, atleast know that by keeping theidiots and criminals undercontrol, you aremaking it betterfor everyoneelse.SECRET: Something you tell to one personat a time.SKELETON: A bunch of bones with the personscraped off.TOOTHACHE: The pain that drives you toextraction.TOMORROW: One of the greatest laboursavingdevices of today.YAWN: An honest opinion openly expressed.WRINKLES: Something other people have,similar to my character lines.December 2008267

PoliceNewsThe Voice of PoliceThere are clearlypeople in Policewho are futurecomediansPicture if you would the scene…Local Traffic Alcohol Group (TAG),Traffic Safety Unit (TSU) and RoadPolicing staff from Porirua nearWellington waiting at the PlimmertonWeigh Station to assist police recruitsfrom the nearby Royal New ZealandPolice College on a large check point.This was to later prove particularlysuccessful, including the apprehensionof gang members who had just stolena car in Petone, the discovery of drugsand the usual drink driver/disqualifieddriver who happened to chance theirarm, along with numerous vehicle anddriver licence offences.The recruits from the nearby PoliceCollege would normally turn up inCollege vehicles but not so on thisparticular night as all the Collegevehicles were fully booked.This necessitated the booking of severalrental vans (one is pictured).So a small convoy of marked policevehicles arrived shepherding a line ofrental vans jammed full with enthusiasticnew cops in hi-visibility jackets.For one of the old cops witnessing thescene, the irony of the clearly displayedcompany logo on the rental vans did notescape him and had him grinning fromear to ear as to the unwitting comedianwho chose the rental company.Sick Leave Bank draw downA Sick Leave Bank for all sworn staff hasbeen operating successfully for over 20years.All sworn members fund the Sick LeaveBank. Each member contributes a halfor full days annual leave from time totime. The bank allows sworn membersto apply to an Approval Committeefor additional paid sick leave whentheir own sick leave entitlement hasbeen exhausted. The Sick Leave Bankcan also be used to support a familymember who through illness becomesdependent on the member.Approval CommitteeThe Sick Leave Bank ApprovalCommittee (SLBAC) is made up ofrepresentatives from:• Manager, Police Wellness (Chair);• Police Human Resources;• Finance/Salaries Section; and• The Police Service Organisations(currently Peter Hayes, the Managerof the Police Welfare Fund).268December 2008Applications to the Sick Leave Bankshould be made in the first instance toyour local District HR Administration.Further information on the Sick LeaveBank is available on the Police Intranet.ApplicationsEach application is considered bythe SLBAC on its merits and takesinto account the member’s diagnosis,prognosis, rehabilitation plan (ifapplicable), and his or her likelihood toreturn to work. The committee may alsotake into account the nature of the staffmember’s previous sick leave usage andother current leave totals.Specifically, where an application ismade to support a sick dependant,the committee will consider thecircumstances and contribution madeby the member’s partner or other familymembers before considering approvingsick leave from the Sick Leave Bank.June 2006 for last draw downThe last drawn down for the SickLeave Bank was in June 2006, and thatallocation has now been exhausted.A further draw down of half a day ofleave from all sworn members leavebalances will take place on February 18,2009.Based on current usage, it is expectedthis draw down will be sufficient tomeet applications approved by thecommittee for at least two years.If you have any queries about the SickLeave Bank please direct them to yourlocal HR administration, or a PoliceAssociation representative.Have you moved recently?If you have moved or perhaps are about to,please let us know so we can update yourrecords.You can do this by:• writing to us at PO Box 12344;• calling us on free phone 0800 500 122;• faxing us on (04) 496 6819; or• Emailing us at:membership@policeassn.org.nzYOU NEED TO LET US KNOW YOURMEMBERSHIP NUMBER, NEW ADDRESSAND IF YOU’RE A SERVING MEMBER- YOUR NEW STATION.

New Zealand Police AssociationChanges to ratificationprocedures for theCollective AgreementsCurrent ratification procedures forCollective Agreements are provided forin the Association Rules, where a seriesof ratification meetings are held followedby voting by a show of hands. Wherethe majority of the members (50% plusone) who attend these meetings agree toaccept, the new Collective Agreement isratified.Members must attend a meeting to vote.There are no special votes, proxy votesor absentee votes.The NZPA Annual Conference - theultimate decision making authorityof the Association - has from time totime reviewed ratification procedures,especially whether electronic votingshould be introduced. These reviewsculminated with the 2007 Conferencedirecting the Association Executive”…toreview the pay ratification system, withthe view of making a recommendationon appropriate options to the Boardof Directors by 31 March 2008. Therecommendation could be for changeor status quo, as long as it is researchedand assessed properly”.Options discussedTo give effect to this direction, agroup of member activists met anddiscussed options. These ranged fromretaining the status quo, to changingto complete electronic voting, as wellas other alternatives. This group madea number of recommendations to theBoard, which were endorsed, and then,as required by the Association Rules,considered and generally endorsed bymembers at Annual General Meetingsin June to July 2008.Subsequently, Conference consideredthese recommendations this year andhas approved the following processto ratify Collective Agreements andvariations to the collectives.(a) As a general principle, membersneed to attend a ratification meetingto vote.(b) However, it was also acceptedthat for some members there aremajor difficulties in attendinga ratification meeting and thereshould be provision for two classesof special votes.(c) The two classes of special votesshould be:• Members who can reasonablyanticipate they will be absenton the notified date of theirmeetings.• Members who at short notice areunable to attend a meeting andno alternative meeting can bereasonably attended.Shift work and days off wereconsidered by Conference to NOT bereason enough for a special vote.(d) All requests for a special vote are byway of an application form. This isto be completed by the member andsubmitted to the National Secretaryor an alternative person approvedby the Board, who will considereach application on its merits.(e) Voting at ratification meetings willchange from a show of hands to asecret ballot.(f) All votes, including special votes,will be counted at National Office,and the result will not be declareduntil all votes, including specialvotes, are counted. Only then willthe result be known and declared.Therefore, the vote at each meetingwill not be declared at the meeting.(g) The majority required to ratify willremain 50% plus one of the totalvotes cast, including special votes.RegistrationThe necessary specific rule changesrequired to give effect to the abovechanges and to make a slight amendmentto Standing Orders, have been approvedby Conference and have been submittedto the Registrar of Incorporated Societiesfor registration.The rule changes will take effect onceregistered and will be used for the firsttime for the ratification of the CollectiveAgreement currently being negotiatedcovering inspectors and non-swornequivalents.December 2008269

PoliceNewsThe Voice of PolicePolice Associationhosts internationalpolicing conferenceThe New Zealand Police Association recently hosted the biennialconference of the International Council of Police RepresentativeAssociations (ICPRA) in Wellington from 19-22 October.NZ Police Association President Greg O’Connor was re-electedchairman of ICPRA, the first time a chairman has been re-elected tothe position. Traditionally, the chairman’s position is rolled over toanother member country every two years.ICPRA is an international organisation representing the interests ofmore than 1.5 million law enforcement officers around the world.Delegates from the United Kingdom, Ireland, Europe, North America,Australasia and South Africa attended the Wellington conference.Internationalisation“Policing has an increasingly international element. Serious crime suchas drug trafficking, money laundering, and child pornography is oftentrans-national. Threats to national security frequently have internationalroots. International co-operation and co-ordination is now a basicrequirement of policing these kinds of crimes,” Mr O’Connor said.“At the same time, developed nations like New Zealand areincreasingly called on to contribute policing experience and expertiseoffshore, through United Nations (UN) and other multilateral missions,to places like Afghanistan, the Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste(formerly East Timor). European ICPRA members are now expected todeploy civilian police into the disputed Georgian territories of Abkhaziaand South Ossetia following the recent withdrawal of Russian troops.Foreign aid“International requirements are shaping the development of policeforces around the world, including in New Zealand, in ways that areonly now beginning to be fully understood,” Mr O’Connor said.“Many of the decisions driving internationalisation are made bypoliticians and career diplomats, for whom police are rapidlybecoming simply another tool of foreign policy. ICPRA aims to givepolice officers an effective voice, to ensure their unique knowledge ofpolicing is taken into account and their interests are protected.The theme at this year’s conference was ‘Advancing ICPRA’.• Terry Spence (Police Federation of Northern Ireland)• Armando Ferreira (Portuguese National Police Union)Sessions explored the drivers of the internationalisation of policing,global trends in restructuring of police forces, and how policeassociations can respond to such future challenges.Mr O’Connor said the conference was very successful. “As well asbuilding stronger foundations for international co-operation betweenpolice asscoiations in future, the conference provided an opportunityfor police associations from around the world to compare experienceson many of the common issues we face, such as Tasers and theincreasing civilianisation of police,” he said.• John Hosking (Cooks Islands PoliceAssociation) addresses the conference.270December 2008• Mpho Kwinika (South African Police Union) informs delegates at the 2008 ICPRAconference about the issues faced by South African Police.

New Zealand Police Association• Abbey Witbooi (Police & Prisons Civil Rights Union of South Africa)• Jan Schonkeren (European Confederation of Police).• Vince Kelly (Police Federation of Australia).• Charles Momy (Canadian PoliceAssociation).• Peter Ibsen (Police Union of Denmark).• Alex Robertson (BritishTransport PoliceFederation).• Steve Smith (PoliceFederation of England &Wales).• Norrie Flowers (Scottish Police Federation).December 2008271

PoliceNewsThe Voice of PoliceMayoral receptionfor ICPRA repsDelegates attending the 2008ICPRA (International Councilof Police RepresentativeAssociations) conference, hostedby the NZ Police Associationin Wellington, were invited toattend a mayoral reception inthe Wellington City Councilchambers, hosted by Mayor KerryPrendergast. Ms Prendergasttook the time to welcome theinternational visitors and providedthem with a brief history of thecouncil chamber building and themayors who had preceded her,referring to each of their portraitson the wall.• NZ Police Association President Greg O’Connor with her worship the Mayor of Wellington,Kerry Prendergast.• Cameron Pope (Police Federation ofAustralia) and Steve Smith (PoliceFederation of England & Wales).• Abbey Witbooi (Police & Prisons Civil Rights Union of South Africa) and John Hosking(Cook Islands Police Association).• Ian Leavers (Police Federation of Australia), Stu Mills (NZ PoliceAssociation) and Cameron Pope (Police Federation of Australia).• Chris Pentecost (CEO, NZ Police Association), Vince Kelly (PoliceFederation of Australia), Mark Burgess (Police Federation ofAustralia) and Charles Momy (Canadian Police Association).272December 2008

New Zealand Police AssociationPolice Health Plan comparesfavourably with other plansEvery couple of years Consumer NZ does an exercise assessingboth the value of individual premiums charged by providers ofhealth insurance.After summarising 10 “need to knows” points about healthinsurance, consistent with previous years Consumer identifiedthe advantages of health insurance as including:• Having cover available when needed;• Thereby not having to go on a waiting list;• Choosing your own specialist; and• Scheduling the time and date of a procedure to suit you;Included among the negatives of health insurance were:• Premiums can be expensive;• And escalate with age;• Pre-existing conditions may not be covered; and• Benefits do not always cover the full cost of treatment.HSO policiesConsumer also assessed hospital and surgical only (HSO)policies, and an HSO policy with additional benefits from eightdifferent providers across a number of different consumerprofiles. With different premium and benefit structures,exclusions and excesses such comparisons can be difficult.Notwithstanding the differences, Consumer identified andrecommended specific providers for each of the memberprofiles. As membership of the Police Health Plan is closedto the general public, Consumer do not include us in thecomparisons, so we do our own comparisons based on theConsumer recommendations.The various member profiles used were:• A couple both aged 54;• A retiree aged 65;• A solo parent aged 48 with two children (14 and 17);• A couple, both aged 41 with two children (eight and 10years); and• A single adult aged 30.PHP significantly cheaperWhen compared against the recommended HSO policypremiums with no excess, the Police Health Plan Surgical Onlypolicy, due to our premium structure, was significantly cheaperfor the first three member categories (couple aged 54, retireeaged 65 and solo parent with two children). Our premiums forthe family were very similar to the recommended product andmore expensive for the 30-year-old single adult member (withthe comparison improving in our favour as the member ages).We have consistently stated we believe Police Health Planprovides the most economic long-term health insuranceavailable. From the information in this Consumer report, wefeel this remains unchanged.Judith Collins namedas new Police MinisterJudith Collins is the new Minister ofPolice, replacing Labour’s AnnetteKing, who had been in the role forthree and a half years.Prime Minister John Key announced on17 November that Mrs Collins wouldbe taking on the role.Ms Collins is a highly qualifiedand experienced lawyer. She was• Judith Collinspreviously a company director prior tobeing elected to the constituency seat ofClevedon in 2002.She holds Bachelor of Laws, Master of Laws (with Honours)and Master of Taxation degrees by the University of Auckland.Ms Collins, who has over 20 years experience as a lawyer,had been Chair of the Casino Control Authority, Presidentof the Auckland District Law Society, Vice-President of theNew Zealand Law Society and a public company director andchairperson before becoming an MP.Ranked at No. 7She is ranked at number seven in the new Cabinet andwhile National were in Opposition had responsibilityfor four portfolios, Social Welfare, Veterans’ Affairs,Families and Pacific Island Affairs. She was alsoDeputy Chair of the Social Services Select Committee.The Police Association has congratulated Ms Collins on herappointment.“The Police Association has enjoyed positive, constructiverelationships with past Police Ministers and also with theNational Party’s spokespeople on Law and Order and Police,Simon Power and Chester Borrows. We look forward tobuilding a similarly constructive relationship with Ms Collinsin her new role,” said Police Association Vice-President ChrisCahill.Practical experience to impart“The practical policing experience and expertise the PoliceAssociation can access can be extremely valuable to a PoliceMinister who is willing to listen. In considering any newidea, the first question should always be ‘will this actuallywork’? Frontline police officers are best placed to answer thatquestion,” he added.Mr Cahill noted Ms Collins’ senior Cabinet ranking, sayingit recognises the importance of the role and reflects theseriousness of the challenges facing police.“High-ranking Cabinet Ministers are in a strong position toargue for resources during budget rounds. Tougher economicconditions are likely to increase demands on police at the verytime public sector budgets are being squeezed. Police will becounting on Ms Collins to put their case very strongly,” he said.December 2008273

PoliceNewsThe Voice of PoliceThe 73nd Annual Conference of the NZ Police Association was held in Wellington from 29-31 October.International guest speakers joined with the Leader of the Opposition John Key, Police Minister AnnetteKing and Commissioner of Police Howard Broad for the conference. The following articles capture theflavour of the conference’s three days.President emphasises importance of Policeengagement with their communitiesBy Bex Shannon, Association Communications AssistantPolice Association President, Greg O’Connor, addressed conferencedelegates, international guests and other dignitaries about the issuessurrounding “Police as Community” – the conference theme.Mr O’Connor said that New Zealand police officers are “in danger oflosing their connection to New Zealand society in a very fundamentalway” due to the erosion of public trust in policing over recent years.Principles of policingHe started by referring to the “Peel Principles” – nine principles ofeffective and ethical policing laid out by Sir Robert Peel, the forefather ofmodern policing – and said that the cornerstone of these principles is theidea of policing ‘by consent’.“In other words, we are only able to act effectively as police becausesociety acknowledges the need for us to do so. The community consentsto be policed, because they trust and respect us to do the job fairly andimpartially.”However, Mr O’Connor said that criticisms from the public and armchaircritics via coverage in the media, politics and talkback radio programmesare damaging and driving a wedge between police and the public.Public criticisms“A running commentary of negativity and sniping has become standardwhenever there is police use of force – long before the facts areknown. Mistakes or misconduct by an individual officer are immediatelygeneralised to tar all police as corrupt or incompetent.”The Waitara shooting, the Commission of Inquiry into Police Conduct andthe recent Whakatane cellblock case, were all examples of situationswhen police had been unfairly lambasted for their actions and their namedragged through the media circus.“It is no wonder that police are facing more abuse, taunts and violentassaults at work than ever before.”Affecting youthMr O’Connor said that in recent years the media has sent a numberof negative messages to New Zealand’s young people that underminerespect and trust in police, and respect for police authority. Messageslike:• If you drive fast enough, police have to let you go;• You can swear and spit at police and they have to put up with it;• If you’re under 16, they can’t touch you;• If a police officer arrests you, it’s okay to get in as many punches asyou can before they manage to cuff you;• If police have to use force, or – God forbid – pepper spray, that’s abreach of your human rights and you can sue; and• If you get arrested, you can take revenge by prosecuting the policeofficer that arrested you.• Police Association President Greg O’Connor, who addresseddelegates with a speech on the conference theme of “Police asCommunity”. He emphasised the importance of re-integratingpolice officers into their communities, both on and off-duty, in orderto gain the respect needed to police ‘by consent’.Erosion of respectMr O’Connor said that nothing has been done to stop this erosion ofrespect:“These messages are being reinforced, because the default position nowis, that spurious allegations against police are taken seriously despite theevidence.Allegations are aired in the media, regardless of their merits. The namesand reputations of good cops are dragged through the mud and thePolice administration says and does nothing in their defence.”Mr O’Connor acknowledged that because of the negative publicperception of police, many officers were reluctant to tell their neighbourswhat they do for a living.Reluctance to integrate“Police don’t want to go for an off-duty drink at their local pub becausewe are actually more vulnerable than anyone else. Not only is it morelikely that some drunken idiot will have a go but if we stand up forourselves, it’s likely to be career threatening.”274December 2008

PoliceNewsThe Voice of PoliceLong-term influencesCommissioner Broad told conference thatthere are three key influences that willimpact on policing in the longer term:• Technology and how it will enable amember of the public to have moresay in what Police are doing for them.For example, it is possible that speedenforcement could go entirely electronicand if this is the case, are police thebest people to be managing this function“given the angst we generate aroundthe use of officer discretion in the speedenforcement area?”;• Public expectations will continue torise. The public will demand seamlessperformance of business processessuch as crime reporting, vetting, andthe administration of victims’ servicesrequired under statute, as well as ‘highlycustomised’treatment in any personaldealings with the Police. “Attemptingto meet these expectations through the‘one size fits all’ approach to policing thatwe have traditionally operated, carriesimmense risk to the Police and also toindividual police staff.”; and• The ability of the public to contract asecurity company or private investigatorto have a quasi-Police function276December 2008performed. “The relationship betweenthe private and public Police models inNew Zealand is an uneasy one – in thelonger term I think this area will be thesubject of fairly rigorous debate – andI don’t think the Police ought to shrinkfrom that debate.”“With greater pressure there willbe more conflict and violence,and more burglaries, thefts androbberies amongst other things.We can anticipate being asked todo more with less, again”.New Act facilitates changeMr Broad told conference that theintroduction of the new Policing Act wasthis year’s biggest change for the Policeorganisation. The Act, which should coverPolice for the next 20 to 30 years, will have“significant and positive repercussions formany years to come”.“This is a long time in today’s world so thelegislation is flexible, it is progressive andmost importantly it offers some protectionagainst the risks which may confront usduring that significant period of time.”There has been some controversysurrounding the Act, including the provisionfor a new category of Police employee – the‘authorised officer’ - as outlined in PolicingAct Part 2, Section 24. The Act limits theauthorised officer to four roles within Police:jailer or escort; police guard; specialistcrime investigator; and police transportenforcement officer.Expert employeesCommissioner Broad said the legislationenables the Police to employ the experts itneeds and allows the organisation to poolthe many talents needed to face futurechallenges: “We would be very lucky tofind people with these skills – or eventhese interests – coming through theregular Police College route. Those fieldsare developing faster than we could trainrecruits to become experts in them.”He said work was being done on designinga unique but distinctly ‘Police’ uniformfor authorised officers to wear while onduty, that would be clearly distinguishablefrom a constable’s uniform. CommissionerBroad said the new Act also “strengthensthe independence and impartiality of theconstable”.He closed by acknowledging all the goodwork that is being done by people in thePolice. “I look forward to more in the future.”International guests address NZPA Annual ConferenceTo conclude the 73rd Police AssociationAnnual Conference, representatives fromseveral Australian police jurisdictions spokeabout a range of issues currently affectingthem. Below is a brief rundown of someissues of interest that arose.Employment difficultiesMick Standing,Treasurer of thePolice Associationof South Australia,told Conference thatwhile police numbersare higher than everbefore, police are stillfinding it difficult tofill positions in remoteareas, despite offeringlucrative remuneration• Mick Standing(Treasurer, PoliceAssociation ofSouth Australia).packages. Police housing in remote areasis also a problem, with a number of housesbuilt as early as 1901, being completelyrun down. The South Australian PoliceForce is currently trialling Tasers, which theAssociation is fighting “tooth and nail” tohave deployed.Commissioner suspendedAngela Smith, Assistant General Secretary ofthe Police Associationof Tasmania, said thatthe Tasmania PoliceCommissioner wasrecently suspendedon full pay. He wasarrested four weeksprior to Conferenceand charged withdisclosing officialsecrets to the Ministerand Premier regardingan investigation that• Angela Smith(Assistant GeneralSecretary, PoliceAssociation ofTasmania).was being conducted by Police, on mattersdirectly relating to them. The Commissionerhas pleaded not guilty and opted to godirectly to the Supreme Court. The matterhas been adjourned until February 2009 forarraignment.Standards of recruitmentTony King, Executive Member of thePolice Association of New South Wales,told Conference that Police are havingproblems with their recruitment academy.The standard of recruits coming out ofthe academy has been steadily declining,so Police have implemented curfews tocurb late night antics amongst recruits.The former marine who was running theacademy has also been replaced. NewSouth Wales Police were recently issuedwith Tasers, but only 229 for more than15,000 police. Duty officers and sergeantswill be the only members of Police trainedto use the device. Queensland Police havealso decided to issue staff with Tasers andare currently waiting on 4,000 of the devicesto be issued to operational police.Tasers issuedPeter Potthoff,Director of the PoliceAssociation of WesternAustralia, said thatto accommodatea growing numberof tactical devices,including recentlyissued Tasers,police officers have• Peter Potthoff(Director, PoliceAssociationof WesternAustralia).been issued with thigh holsters. WesternAustralian Police tend - unlike otherAustralasian Police jurisdictions - not to‘trial’ new gear but instead just go aheadand get it. They have all manner ofprotection devices and uniforms availableto staff including, cargo pants, duty pants,caps, and formal hats, and are planningon installing vehicle systems that contain

New Zealand Police Associationpictures and extensive details of people with previous convictions.Attrition is a problem in Western Australia and sits at around 7.5%.Currently, 47% of detectives are only in their first two years ofexperience.Continuing the international theme, Jon White, from NZ Police gavea presentation on overseas deployments. Jon said that sending staffon deployments is an important function of the NZ Police and willremain so in the foreseeable future.Police need to be ‘part’ of theircommunity, says Waitakere MayorA man described by Police AssociationPresident Greg O’Connor as the “kaumatuaof metropolitan mayors”, spoke toConference delegates about the importanceof encouraging police officers to be part ofthe communities they live in.Waitakere Mayor, Bob Harvey, who hasbeen leader of his city for 16 years, said thatintegrating police into the community hadhelped Waitakere to change from a ‘WildWest’ – an “unsafe and unpleasant placeto go” - into a prospering, and relativelypeaceful place to live.Council and police relationshipPresenting a series of photos depictingpolice ‘in their communities’ – marching instreet parades, interacting with local people,playing in local sports teams, and beinggenerally visible – Mr Harvey demonstratedthe links between the council and the Policeand the impact the relationship has had onWaitakere city.When he was first elected mayor in October1992, Mr Harvey went straight to the policestation to talk to the Area Commander aboutwhat the important “issues” were and howthey could “get it right” in Waitakere. Hesaid that since that first meeting with thecommander, the council had a relationshipwhich was “second to none” - “a communityrelationship, between Police and a city”.“At all times police were invited to be partof the council procedure. Coming to council,doing submissions and being consulted.”Improvement initiativesDuring his time as mayor, Mr Harvey hashelped to implement a range of initiativesthat improve the lives of Waitakere citizensand improve their relationship with police.These include, welcoming members ofmigrant communities onto an ‘ethnic’board within the city council, creating aMemorandum of Understanding for Pacificpeople, creating the first Maori standing• Waitakere Mayor Bob Harvey speaksto conference about the importance ofencouraging police to be part of theircommunity – standing on councils, playingin local sports teams, and being visible inthe local community.committee, and starting a new domesticviolence campaign – based on the ‘It’s notok’ ads aired on television – featuring localcelebrities and role models.Police lift the pride and mana of a city, andthat is of the utmost importance for councilpersonnel. Members of the public needed tounderstand the world police live and work in,Mr Harvey said.Honesty and trust“At the top, the mayor has got to relate tothe Police commander and there has to bean honesty and an absolute trust betweenthe Police system and the civvies. Councilscannot stay in their little box doing roads,rates and rubbish, we have to get out thereand understand the world that you [police]exist in.”Mr Harvey told conference he is disappointedthat police officers have been banned fromstanding on local government bodies, due tonewly passed legislation, and said they arevital representatives of the wider community.Police on local government“I’ve got no issues with police beinginvolved, and in fact if I can’t have themelected on to the council, I would appointthem to the council…I think it’s bizarre andjust plain stupid. I think any council that isdisadvantaged by a member of their PoliceForce not being allowed to be on council,should appoint them to their committees.”Mr Harvey said that he is frustrated thatmany communities in New Zealand still don’tlink with their police, and are stuck in aworld of roads, rates and rubbish.“So many mayors think it’s their job to bagpolice…not a lot is wrong with the Police,never has been. If you don’t work with thePolice and the courts, and you don’t put inthe social services, and you don’t in factsupport police officers, then you’re not goingto achieve what you need to,” he added.2009 Membership cardsCurrent membership cards, that, among other things, confirmentitlement to many of the great discounts through the MemberDiscounts Programme, expire on 31 December 2008.Replacement cards for 2009 are being issued this month.If you have not received your card by the end of December, pleasecontact our Member Services Centre via the Police Network44446 or (Wellington members 4966-800) or 0800 500 122,8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday to Friday or you can Email them on:enquiries@policeassn.org.nz.December 2008277

PoliceNewsThe Voice of PoliceJohn Key unveils National’sAction Plan for Violent CrimeBy Steve Plowman, Editor, Police NewsJust nine days out from aGeneral Election, the Leaderof the Opposition and PrimeMinister-in-waiting, John Key,told Conference delegatesabout National’s Action Plan forViolent Crime.He said National are committed to a visionof the future where the “real issues thatmatter” - the economy, health services,education, and law and order – were given astrong focus.Mr Key said that he shared “the realfrustration of the vast majority of the public”that every day so many law-abiding NewZealanders have their lives and the livesof their friends and families, destroyed byviolent criminals.Clear viewsMembers of the public had quite a clear viewon law and order issues. “They understandconcepts like: Who is the offender? Whois the victim? Who is the law enforcementauthority?””I sense that many New Zealanders arefrustrated to see offenders treated withconsiderable care by our judicial system,victims treated so very poorly and lawenforcement officers subjected to the mostminute level of scrutiny for the actionsthey have taken, often under the mostunbelievable pressure,” Mr Key said.Mr Key said that he was grateful to policeofficers for having made the choice ofcareer they had. “The solution partly restswith you as the frontline law enforcementofficers in the New Zealand Police. Youhave within your hands a real ability tomake a difference.” He said the other partof the solution rested with him and hisparliamentary colleagues who made NewZealand’s laws.He pledged a National Government wouldwork hard to support Police makingcommunities safer. He said a 47% increasein violent crime in the last nine years was278December 2008• National Party Leader John Key addresses Conference while Law and Order spokespersonChester Borrows listens intently.unacceptable and neither was a record levelof assaults on police officers or the doublingof grievous assaults.10-point planMr Key outlined the “10 urgent steps”National would take to turn policy into reality:• The immediate introduction of legislationto clamp down on criminal gangs andthe 'P' trade they support;• Tackling increasing violent youth crimeby immediately bolstering the YouthCourt with a range of new interventionsand sentences including extendingits jurisdiction so it can deal with 12and 13-year-olds accused of seriousoffences; allowing it to issue neworders requiring offenders to attendcompulsory mentoring or drug andalcohol rehabilitation programmes,and requiring offenders' parents,together with their children, to attendparenting programmes. Nationalwould also introduce a new option ofelectronic monitoring for youth offendersreleased on supervision and introducea 12-month 'supervision with activity'sentence called "Fresh Start". The FreshStart programme will incorporate upto three months residential training atarmy-type facilities. Fresh Start will befollowed up with intensive mentoring toensure offenders can put the lessonsthey've learned into action.Mr Key promised to make the new laws“a matter of priority”. Additional fundingfor Youth Justice and Child, Youth andFamily would be in the first Budget;• A toughening of the bail laws to make itharder for criminals awaiting trial to getbail;• Removal of the right of the worst repeatviolent offenders to be released onparole including: Any offender whohas been convicted twice for a violentoffence and sentenced to five yearsor more will not be eligible for parole.The courts would be given an optionto sentence an offender to life withoutparole;• Training an additional 600 swornfrontline police from January next year.Ensuring that by the end of National’sfirst term of government that there isone police officer to every 500 NewZealanders. A “priority-boost” would bedeployed in Counties-Manukau;• Making it easier for police to catch andprosecute criminals by giving them thepower to take DNA from every personarrested for an imprisonable offence;

New Zealand Police AssociationDNA records would be required to bedestroyed where charges are dropped orwhere suspects are found not guilty;• Giving police officers the power to issuetime-bound on-the-spot protectionorders to help protect victims ofdomestic violence;• An immediate introduction of a Victims’Compensation Scheme funded by a levyon criminals;• An increase in maximum sentences foroffenders who commit acts of violenceand abuse against children. This willinvolve an amendment to the Crimes andSentencing Acts to increase sentencesfor assaulting a child, for manslaughterfollowing a history of child abuse, forfailure to provide the necessities of life,for child cruelty, and for wilful neglect ofa child; and• An increase in drug and alcoholrehabilitation and compulsory workprogrammes for prisoners.No work, no paroleMr Key gave a commitment that in its firstyear in office a National Government would“make it absolutely explicit” that thoseprisoners who are able to work and refuse todo so would not be eligible for parole.Mr Key said that by 31 December 2011,National would boost the number ofprisoners learning industry-based skillsthrough Corrections Inmate Employmentby at least 1,000. It would also double thenumber of prisoners who are able to receiveintensive drug and alcohol treatment to1,000 by the same year.He said that as a country New Zealand had“failed to do enough to intercept young kidswho are running off the rails and put themback on the rails.””When offenders are placed in our prisons,we fail to make any meaningful progresswith rehabilitation or even to keep themfree from the drugs that play a major part inmuch of their behaviour,” he added.Failures compoundedHe said that failure was compounded by bail,sentencing and parole laws, which allowedhardened criminals back into communitieswhen it is “abundantly obvious” that they willre-offend.He said National’s Action Plan for ViolentCrime would take “the practical stepsnecessary to start addressing these failuresand to squarely face the challenge ofescalating violent crime.”Mr Key said he was keen to acknowledge“the very real and unique view that policeofficers have of their communities”. He addedthat National supported retaining policeofficers being able to serve their communitiesin an elected position at local levels.Mr Key said that his party “intended to backthe people who wear the Police uniform.”Expectations of professionalismIn tandem with that backing he wouldexpect high standards of conduct andprofessionalism, an enforcement of thelaw without fear or favour and total politicalneutrality.He also said that where police found thelaws passed by Parliament to be deficient forthese purposes, he wanted to hear “franklyand clearly what changes need to be madeso we can make them work”.He said it was time to bring common senseto attacking the way law and order problems“so seriously worry our communities”.In closing Mr Key said that he “greatlyvalued and admired” the work that is donedaily by police officers and that he wouldcontinue to value their input and would backthem to do the job well.“If I am elected by New Zealand to be PrimeMinister, you, the New Zealand Police, willenjoy my strong personal support. And Imost sincerely hope that with our combinedattention to good law making and goodpolicing we will be able to make a realdifference,” he told the conference in closing.• WE ARE AMUSED: National Party Law and Order spokesman Chester Borrows, National Party Leader John Key, Association President GregO’Connor and Police Association Vice-President Stu Mills share a light-hearted moment after Mr Key suggested that a delegate should solve theconcerns he had raised by “joining the National Party”.December 2008279

PoliceNewsThe Voice of PoliceAssociation hopes new National Governmentwill institute Commission ofInquiry into Organised Criminal GangsBy Steve Plowman, Editor, Police NewsThen Police Minister Annette King announced to Conference thata Labour Government, if returned for a fourth term, would set up aCommission of Inquiry into Organised Criminal Gangs, something thathas been on the Police Association’s wish list for several years.Unless the incoming National Government decides to run with the ideathe chances of such an inquiry coming to fruition may well have diedwith the General Election, which put Labour out of office nine days afterthe Minister’s announcement.Police Association President Greg O’Connor welcomed the idea andsaid he hoped that an incoming National Government would see fit toimplement it, as the problem remained no matter who held sway inParliament.Extent of organised crime unknown“We simply don’t know the full extent of organised crime penetration inNew Zealand. But we do know we have a serious and growing problemwith a violent street gang culture, especially amongst Maori and Pacificyouth. We also know that traditional gangs such as the motorcyclegangs, ethnic gangs, and now the Asian organised crime influence,have extended their influence beyond the ‘poorer end of town’ on theback of the ‘P’ trade, and traditional rivalries are being replaced bysyndication and franchising.”“Gangs are getting smarter, richer, their sphere of influence is growingby the day, and the threat they pose is becoming ever more insidious.”“Police are very good at investigating specific cases and have madesome real inroads into specific gangs recently. But what we havelacked is the ability to build a real picture of the depth and breadth ofthe organised crime problem.The big picture“A properly empowered inquiry, with commissioners empowered tocompel evidence from the key players in organised crime – undershield of indemnity or anonymity, if necessary – will give us that bigpicture,” Mr O’Connor said.“It will allow us to consider evidence on ways to tackle the threat,including drawing on experience from Australia and elsewhere, andproduce meaningful recommendations to tackle the problem in a coordinatedway.”Ms King had promised a Commission that would be “a means ofestablishing the extent of gang involvement in organised crime andways to stamp these out.” The proposed Commission would havedrawn on both local and overseas expertise in relation to dealing withthe gang problem.Commission’s briefThe proposed Commission’s brief was to include a commitment tofollowing the progress of South Australian gang legislation to determineif it is applicable in a New Zealand context. Under current SouthAustralian legislation a gang can be outlawed by being “declared” as acriminal organisation by a court if the court feels an application by thePolice has merit.Control orders can then be made against individual members, makingit illegal for them to associate or communicate with other members andfrom being in designated places.280December 2008• “If ever a human relationship could be called symbiotic, then it iscertainly the relationship between Police and the community.” –Then Minister of Police, Annette King, addressing Conference.Ms King said she had very much enjoyed her three years as Minister ofPolice. “It is not always easy for you or me but I appreciate and highlyvalue the work done by the men and women who make up the NewZealand Police. I have been protective of your reputation, particularlyagainst those who use our police officers to make political capital,” shesaid.Community safetyMs King then spoke to the conference’s theme of “Police asCommunity”, saying it was “particularly apt” as the enhancement ofcommunity safety depended upon “an effective, well-equipped andhighly-motivated Police organisation” adding that “equally the Policedepend upon a motivated, caring and helpful community”.“If ever a human relationship could be called symbiotic, then it iscertainly the relationship between Police and the community,” she said.Ms King said that people felt reassured when they saw police in theircommunity. “They register the police presence and they feel safer,” shesaid. “Unfortunately, however, too often policing in the community isreduced to over-simplified solutions.”Community policingThe Minister said she viewed ‘community policing’ as “our generalduties staff, our CIB staff, our road policing staff and our communitypolice, our organised crime investigators, our Maori, Pacific and otherethnic liaison staff, and our youth aid staff.”Ms King said she was proud of Labour’s successful “home-grown”pilot programme in Counties-Manukau aimed at dealing with youthgangs and hoped that this would be extended to other districts. TheLabour Government had funded a youth gang initiative involving youthworkers, an integrated case management model and reception centres.The initiative involves Police, Justice, Education, Ministry of SocialDevelopment, Child Youth and Family, and local government.Association contributionMs King praised the “immense contribution” the Police Associationmade to policing in New Zealand. “That contribution was particularlynotable in terms of the new Policing Act, which is a great tribute to thework of NZ Police, your Association and of Parliament,” she said.In closing Ms King returned to the conference theme “Police asCommunity” saying that Governments cannot solve all the issues shehad discussed but that by working together with local authorities,community organisations and individuals “we could make ourneighbourhoods as safe as we possibly can”.

New Zealand Police AssociationCONFERENCE MOTIONS 2008CONFERENCE MOTIONS- ASSOCIATION RULECHANGESAssociation Rule Changes – Rule 106 & 110(b)MOVED Mr Cornell seconded Mr Logan to retain thestatus quo, 50% + 1 in terms of the majority requiredto ratify a Collective Agreement or variation.Poll VoteFor 145Against 72CARRIEDNew Rule 106MOVED Mr Aberhart, seconded Mr Lochrie that a newCollective Agreement will be ratified and acceptedwhere the proposed Agreement is supported by notless than 50% +1 of the votes cast by members of theAssociation covered by the proposed agreement.CARRIEDNew Rule 107MOVED Mr McCoy seconded Mr Cornell(a) Except for special votes voting will generally be byway of a secret ballot of members covered by theproposed Agreement and cast at meetings calledspecifically for the purpose of ratifying the proposedCollective Agreement.(b) Numbered ballot papers will be distributed at eachmeeting at the conclusion of any explanation of theproposed Collective Agreement.(c) A ballot box will remain open at each meeting until allmembers who attended the meeting have voted orfor 30 minutes after distribution of the ballot papers,whichever occurs first.(d) Once the ballot is closed all votes will be sealed inan envelope. The result of the meeting will not bedeclared until all ratification meetings are completedand all votes, including special votes, are counted.CARRIEDNew Rule 108MOVED Ms Hayes seconded Mr Hampton(a) Members should make every endeavour to attend aratification meeting.(b) A member who has a bona fide reason for not beingable to attend a ratification meeting may apply to theNational Secretary for a special vote.(c) Special votes will only be considered for memberswho:• Can reasonably anticipate they will be absent on thenotified date of their relevant meeting(s) or• At short notice are unable to attend a meeting andno alternative meeting can reasonably be attended.Days off or shift work will not of itself be reason for aspecial vote.(d) The National Secretary is the sole arbiter in approvingspecial votes and his/her decision is final.Provided however the National Secretary mayauthorise an alternative person, this person to beapproved by the Board of Directors, to approvespecial votes on his/her behalf.CARRIEDNew Rule 109MOVED Mr Cornell seconded Mr Logan(a) A member who can reasonably anticipate theywill be absent on the notified date of the meetingthey would normally expect to attend must submitan application for a special vote in the prescribedform to the National Secretary prior to the ratificationmeetings commencing. Where a special vote isapproved the National Secretary will make availablerelevant information to the member and the specialvote ballot paper. A special vote must be submittedprior to the conclusion of all the ratificationmeetings.(b) A member who, at short notice, is unable to attenda ratification meeting must submit an applicationfor a special vote in the prescribed form to theNational Secretary within three working days of thedate of the meeting the member would normallyhave expected to attend. Where a special vote isapproved, the National Secretary will make availablerelevant information to the member and the specialvote ballot paper. A special vote must be submittedwithin two working days of being approved.CARRIEDNew Rule 110MOVED Mr Cornell seconded Mr Logan(a) All votes by secret ballot at ratification meetings willbe counted and collated along with all special votes.(b) A Collective Agreement will be ratified where notless than 50 percent + 1 one of the total votescast by members of the Association covered by theproposed agreement are in favour of accepting thesettlement.CARRIEDNew Rule 111MOVED Mr Cornell seconded Mr Logan(a) The ratification procedure for a variation to aCollective Agreement will, for a matter affectingmembers generally, be the same procedure as inRules 106-107-108-109-110.Provided, however, where the variation will onlyaffect one or more defined group(s) of membersonly the members directly affected will be entitledto vote to accept, or not accept, the variation. Theratification procedure will be that provided for in Rule111(a) or an alternative ratification procedure, suchas by postal vote or electronic vote, as determinedby the Board of Directors.CARRIEDStanding Order 5MOVED Mr Cornell seconded Mr LoganExcept for the ratification of Collective Agreements andVariations, voting shall be by a show of hands, and itshall be compulsory for all members present to vote onthe question before the meeting.Voting for the ratification of Collective Agreements andVariations shall be as prescribed in the AssociationRules.CARRIEDCONFERENCE MOTIONSPolice officers right tostand for local body officeMOVED Mr Aberhart seconded Mr Lochrie thatConference directs National Office to engage with keypoliticians to revisit and have removed the part of thePolicing Act, which prevents police officers standing forlocal body office.CARRIEDArrest of members for criminal mattersMOVED Mr Whitley seconded Mr Logan that Conferencedirects National Office to write to the Commissioner toexpress concern that some Districts unnecessarilyarrest members for criminal matters, despite thefact such proceedings should be initiated by way ofSummons (pursuant to s22 NZ Bill of Rights Act 1990)- no arbitrary arrest.CARRIEDAuckland staffingMOVED Mr Logan, seconded Mr Cornell that thisconference directs that National Office takes allpractical steps to engage the incoming Police Ministerto urgently address the Auckland staffing issues byobtaining Cabinet approval to fund an increase of staffto-populationratio to that of the NZ national averageby 2011.CARRIEDMOVED Mr Thompson seconded Mr Hampton andfurther, that the national staff-to-population ratio ofthe NZ Police to be increased to the same ratio as theQueensland Police Service by 2015.AMENDMENT IS CARRIEDLife MembershipMOVED Mr Cornell seconded Mr Aberhart thatConference does not endorse Life Membershipnomination for (Retired Superintendent) Alec Waugh.CARRIEDDriving Committee determination repolice traffic accidentsMOVED Mr Cuff seconded Mr Reid that thisConference directs that National Office engage withPNHQ to challenge the legality and/or current operationpractises of District Professional Driving Committees; inparticular with respect to processes and requirementsnow in force under the Code of Conduct.CARRIEDPolice Act /uniformsMOVED Mr Smith seconded Mr Rowe that Nationaloffice takes all actions to ensure that there is sufficientdifferentiation (in the uniforms) between the office ofconstable and authorised officers so that the publicis not confused in any way as to the powers of theofficer.CARRIEDStudy leave for internal Police papersMOVED Ms Hayes seconded Mr Doocey thatConference directs National Office to actively seekan introduction of study leave for internal promotionalpapers commensurate with the amount of workrequired for those papers.CARRIEDStudy leave for internal Police papersMOVED Ms Hayes seconded Mr Doocey that Conferencedirects National Office to seek a review of the practicalduties paper at all levels.CARRIEDDecember 2008281

PoliceNewsThe Voice of PoliceFormer Association Directorawarded Life MembershipFormer Association Director Mark Leys is the recipient of this year’sLife Membership award, which was presented to him at the PoliceAssociation‘s Annual Conference dinner in October.The award acknowledges his services to theNZ Police Association and its members, overmany years. Police Association President,Greg O’Connor, presented the award to MrLeys, who he described as “one of nature’scharacters”. Mr O’Connor recited a poem,featured below, that he wrote to mark MrLeys’ achievement.Old Grey BeardYou always knew he’d been,noticed the beard or the tie,the Mark Leys brand is a strong one,for golden arches-type recognition he’d vie.Twas in South Auckland he made his name,although Manurewa boy he is not,his private school education,he used to improve society’s lot.Smart bosses realised his value,his Association role helped to get the job done,Brion Duncan and Peter Marshall,were two who gave him his head to run.Mark joined the Association from the start,he put Papakura on the map,any visitor from the Wellington office,was put to the sword by the bearded chap.“More staff for South Auckland,and more cars for stations”, he roared.The reply was an invitation,to come and join the Board.At the Board and the national stage,were where his talents were to become known,those gaudy but original ties,now to a bigger audience were shown.Whenever he rose to speak,whether at Conference or the Board table,his appearance attracted attention,but his words conveyed a man very able.Never first to speak,he left that for those more verbose,but after his contribution,the vote was rarely close.Very soon after the merger,he took Road Policing in his stride,though Board members reckoned he wanted,a flash motorbike to ride.But he had to stick to the farmbike,down on his Pukekohe farm,where the continuous ringing of his cellphone,shattered the rural calm.There was a problem with that,as at his members’ beck and call he would be,he only had decent cellphone coverage,half way up a macrocarpa tree.We at National Office learned,that if we wanted to contact him fast,to avoid him catching pneumonia,you’d check the weather forecast.He hated spending members’ money,and would always book the cheapest flight,then by the time he arrived home from Boardmeetings,it would be the middle of the night.And when it came to dressing,not only the ties were a hoot,he once fronted up to a funeral,in a genuine safari suit.He’s been retired nearly a year,no doubt his energy has found an outlet,but tonight it’s the Association’s chance,to ensure Mark Leys will never forget.You’re a man dedicated to service,to your members on life’s trip,there could be no better candidate,for Association Life Membership.It’s good Anne could be here,a good woman to up your back,mind you, she didn’t keep him clean for long,I see that trademark beard is back.It’s my honour to present this award,not an easy one to attain,one thing we know for certain,we’ll never see ties like yours again.This presentation has to be different,verse was the best way I could find,to celebrate the contributions,of a man who would always be one of a kind.Had a few beers celebrating Christmasand wondering whether you are soberenough to drive home? While this won’tbeat the time-honoured and safe methodof taking a taxi home and leaving your carat work, courtesy of Police News you havethe opportunity to have an impromptu andsimple test of your sobriety by keeping thisissue on your desk opened at this page forfuture reference. Follow the instructionson the photo below and if the woman inthe photo looks okay and in focus to you –don’t drive home!• Former Police Association Director Mark Leys (the bearded one) with Association PresidentGreg O’Connor and Mark’s Life Membership certificate, after being presented with it at theAnnual Conference dinner recently. - Photo courtesy of Lance Lawson Photography.282December 2008

New Zealand Police AssociationLong-serving Association staff member Tui Hunterreceives President’s Award for long and loyal serviceTui Hunter, Executive Assistant to the PoliceAssociation Industrial team, was presentedwith the ‘President’s Award’ for long service,at this year’s Annual Conference dinner.The award acknowledges Tui’s mammoth25-year run working for the Association ina number of different roles. She will retireat the end of December, so that she canpursue other interests. It is only the secondtime that the award has been presented,with Membership Co-ordinator DiannStephen having received the award last yearafter 32 years service.Well deservedPolice Association President, Greg O’Connor,presented Tui with the award and said it wasextremely well deserved. A short speechtold of her playing witness to the historyof one third of the life of the organisation.When she started back in 1985, Tui wasone of just six to eight staff working for theorganisation at the time. The Associationnow employs more than 50 staff.Testament to the longevity of her careerwith the Association is a certificate, dated1983, for proficiency on the ‘Wang’ - a verylarge, early model computer. The certificatewas re-produced from her original jobapplication, and gained great amusementfrom those attending Conference dinner.• ‘25 YEARS TO LIFE’: Tui Hunter with the ‘President’s Award’ (marking her distinguished 25years of service to the Police Association and its membership) after receiving her certificatefrom Association President Greg O’Connor at the Annual Conference dinner.Photo courtesy of Lance Lawson Photography.Organised 25 Annual ConferencesDuring the course of her employment, Tuiwas responsible for organising more than 25conferences, and Mr O’Connor said it was“apt that your farewell is also during one of ourconferences”.Tui graciously accepted the award and saidit had been her pleasure to work under eachof three different Presidents during her careerwith the Association. They all worked towardsone common goal, she said, which was to“enhance the lives of police officers and theirfamilies and I would like to think that in somesmall way I have helped to do the same thing”.• A WEALTH OF SERVICE: From left to right: Life Members Mark Leys and J J (Jeff) Taylor, first President’s Award recipient and 32-year stafferDiann Stephen, President Greg O’Connor, Tui Hunter, a 25-year staffer and only the second ever recipient of the President’s Award, and LifeMember Stuart Mangnall.Photo courtesy of Lance Lawson Photography.December 2008283

PoliceNewsThe Voice of Police• Tui Hunter receives a bouquet of flowers from Desley O’Connor, the wife of AssociationPresident Greg O’Connor, to thank her for her 25 years service to the Police Association.- Photo courtesy of Lance Lawson Photography.More musings fromthe far side…There is one nice thing about egotists: theydon’t talk about other people.I went to San Francisco. I found someone’sheart. Now what?Protons have mass? I didn’t even know theywere Catholic.If the world were a logical place, men wouldbe the ones who ride side-saddle.What is a ‘free’ gift? Aren’t all gifts free?Experience is the thing you have left wheneverything else is gone.My weight is perfect for my height - whichvaries.I used to be indecisive. Now I’m not sure.The high cost of living hasn’t affected itspopularity.How can there be self-help ‘groups’?If swimming is so good for your figure, howdo you explain whales?Is it just me - or do buffalo wings really tastelike chicken?Book review: “The Devils Are Here”.Author: Cam Stokes.Published by: Cape Hatley Ltd.Recommended retail price: $29.95.Reviewed by: Steve PlowmanAvailable from: All good books storesincluding Whitcoulls and Paper Plus or isavailable direct from the author at $25(including postage) by writing toP.O. Box 60453 Titirangi,Waitakere City, 0642, Auckland.The Devils Are Here – onefor the Christmas stockingFormer Auckland Drug Squad and OrganisedCrime Unit member Cam Stokes has turnedhis hand to writing and his first book “TheDevils Are Here” follows the fortunes of gangprospect Richard “Rotten” Cook who is as keenas mustard to become a patched member ofthe Devil’s Motorcycle Club.The novel is an easy read and takes the readerinside the world of gangs – warts and all. Herewe learn of Rotten’s rampant drug habit, hisdealing, his broken relationships, all unravellingbefore our eyes as Rotten’s ‘P’ habit leads himdown what one suspects is an inevitable roadto destruction.Rotten is basically a lost cause but his characteris engrossing rather than engaging. Rotten byname and rotten by nature. He ranges from laidback Harley rider to raging standover merchantand through all the characters in between thatinhabit his addictive personality.His “brothers”, who we are left in no doubt hewould die for, are mostly no better but they liveby a code, which ensures their empire is assafe from the prying eyes of the law, despisednarks or other gangs.The tale, told in the first person, is by naturea little repetitious – a reflection perhaps ofthe more mundane and less appealing natureof gang life – but it also captures well theinteraction between gang members andprospects, between members and of coursewith the local constabulary, all of whom aredespised with a vengeance.Rotten’s biggest let down is, of course,himself. But this is something that escapeshim time and again; such is his descentinto the hellish and all-enveloping world ofP addiction.He is continually frustrated by the fact thathe is a long and loyal servant to the club andyet keeps missing out on his colours. Thereare challenges to his addiction along the way– his live-in partner and her daughter leaveand the club bans the ‘burn’ (smoking P) butRotten is already on the roller-coaster ride ofhis life and with each turn of the page youfind yourself imagining what might becomeof the loose unit that is the book’s maincharacter.When released the book spent four weeks inthe top five fiction books in New Zealand, agreat start for a new writer such as Stokes.Stokes has drawn upon his years of dealingwith gangs and organised crime to write abook, which appeals as a good stocking fillerwhen looking for that easy read over theChristmas-New Year period.284December 2008

New Zealand Police AssociationThis column is written by a frontlinepolice officer. It does not represent theviews or policies of the Police Association.Blue ThunderWell, Uncle’s John and Bill are here on the wave of a mighty blue stormthat swept a country that clearly wanted to see change. Not unlikethe Americans in some ways but not quite the same razzamatazz orhoo-hah that the U.S. are (in) famous for. A fresh face to lead us ina time of financial doom and gloom. Please don’t look at the PoliceSuperannuation Scheme figures!So Mr Key and Mr English you have three years to show us you aremade of the ‘right stuff’. You were loud on law and order so now let’ssee you follow it up with some first class action!HalloweenForget about the goblins and gremlins that came to your front door inOctober. If you really want to see horror just read or visit any of our mediaforums that have been keeping us up to date with some individualsthat, in my humble opinion, should be going to the gallows.Firstly, the mighty Feds from the Garden City nailed one very bad manwho had the audacity to take the stand and refute piece of evidenceafter piece of evidence that indicated his guilt in some offending thatcould only be described as pathological. If it weren’t so tragic it wouldhave been almost laughable. Perhaps he was auditioning for thatworld-famous fantasy tale Pinocchio.Well done my southern men and women.And then off to the City of Geysers in the middle north where it wasa struggle to keep a dry eye while you watched the damn news. Howcould human beings born and bred in God’s Own be so cruel to such asweet wee poppet? I have no answer or words for this one.Again, well done team. A stark reminder to the rest of the communitythat this is a bloody hard job at times and we have great people doingincredible things from Cape Reinga to the Bluff.Christmas bellsIt’s that time again folks as we juggle the silly season and the effectof the alcohol fairies. Let’s hope we (the royal we that is) have learnt alesson or two from the Ghosts of Christmas past. With the amount ofmedia coverage and a change in policy, to more early intervention, Ihope and pray our domestic violence and drink-driving stats are downso that we can all remember Christmas for the right reasons ratherthan some of the carnage that comes with these issues.I have only two wishes for this festive season and I shall share themboth with you. The first is that our Men in Black have returned unbeatenfrom the Northern Hemisphere tour (a gimme). The second is that wehave no more holes created in the Thin Blue Line with acts of violencethat leave us all wondering how and why it happened.Keep safe this Christmas team and look after each other and the manythat rely on us to be there for them 24-hours a day, seven days aweek. Also hug the wife and kids and take a moment to reflect whenyou get the chance. She’s a great job in a great country and the cupis half full!See Ya!Christmas Cheerby Ricky CollinsPernod Ricard is one of the world’s largestwine importers and distributors and sparklingwine is one of their flagship wine styles. Herein New Zealand they have had great successin growing the Lindauer label to the pointwhere it is now the largest selling wine brandin the country.Just recently, I went along to a tasting of Pernod Ricard’s currentrange of sparkling wines and discovered that there’s quite a diversityof bubbly styles. With Christmas just around the corner, there may besomething here that sounds like you.Montana Chardonnay Pinot Noir Brut Cuvee RRP $20This is a refined delicate style of wine, with an even blend of Chardonnayand Pinot Noir fruit. There is a hint of shortbread and some yeastinesson the nose, with citrus and stone-fruit flavours on the palate. Thewine has a lovely mousse and acids that are nicely balanced. I foundthis wine really appealing and great value for money.Orlando Trilogy Pinot Noir Chardonnay Pinot Meunier RRP $19This was a real contrast to the Montana. During the primaryfermentation a portion of the fruit was aged in old oak barrels, givingthe wine a distinctive Chardonnaynose. This wine has some similaritiesto French Champagne with Marmitecharacteristics, and a dry, slightlybitter finish. This is a wine with depthof flavour and some weight on thepalate. It’s a distinctive style thatappealed to many at the tasting.Lindauer Special Reserve Brut Cuvee RRP $19This is a luscious style of bubbly that has a pink blush to it, similar to arosé. The dominant Pinot Noir fruit gives the wine a fragrant nose anda flavour profile that includes strawberry and black cherry, and a touchof lemon zest. There is some tannic grip to this wine and at the back ofthe palate you’ll find some balanced bitterness.Deutz Marlborough Cuvee Brut RRP $32The Deutz label has been part of the New Zealand sparkling winescene for around 20 years, and represents a combination of vibrantfresh Marlborough fruit and traditional French Champagne-makingtechniques. It has a beautiful creamy mouth-feel on the palate andthere is a balance between lemon, sweet cherry and chocolate flavoursand toasty yeast notes that you’d expect in quality bubbly, plus goodpersistent length.Deutz Marlborough Cuvee Blanc de Blancs RRP $36This is a stylish wine made from 100% Chardonnay fruit. It’s lean andfresh with a fine bead, good mousse and a crisp acidic mouth-feel.For me it showed lovely citrus fruit flavours with a hint of cashew nutthat stayed on in the mouth for some time. This is quite a step up inquality from the previous wines, and has so far been awarded four goldmedals and one trophy in wine shows to date.December 2008285

POLICE COUNCIL OF SPORTTo contact the Police Council of Sport, call Alison Murray at the RNZPC. Ph: (04) 238-3139Australasian Police and Emergency Games:No lack of medals for DeidreBy Steve Plowman, Editor, Police NewsTe Puke-based police officer Deirdre Lackmight have been in danger of exceeding theweight allowance for her bags on returningfrom the recent Australasian Police andEmergency Services Games – she bagged12 medals.The senior sergeant in charge of Te PukeStation ran up a great tally of a dozen medalsin the Games, which were held at CoffsHarbour, New South Wales.Biennial competitionThe Games, which are held every two years,are like a mini Olympics of the emergencyservices with sports as diverse as triathlonto darts.Ms Lack won five gold, two silver and fivebronze medals in swimming (aquathon, poolswimming and an open water swim) andrunning events, including a triathlon gold.“That’s what I train for all winter,” she said. “Ihad a good race and was really pleased withthe result,” Deidre told Police News. Deidresaid that the triathlon was very well organisedand provided a flat, fast cycle course with afast undulating run course. “The roads werevery smooth for cycling,” she said.The early morning start ensured that triathleteswere not out in the warmer conditions, whichcame later in the day, something that Deidreappreciated very much. “With the event overfor me in about 1 hour and 4 minutes it meantthat I avoided any potential problems with theheat,” she said.Her performance gave her a comfortable twominutes to spare over the second placegetterin the triathlon and resulted in her not onlywinning her age group but also capturing theoverall title.Tough Aussie swimmersDeidre said the competition from the Australianwomen in the swimming events was fierce.In one event she faced an ex-Olympian, soher results were even more impressive whenyou think of the overall quality of Australia inswimming generally.Deidre said the event was a great experiencebut competing for five days across a range• Deidre Lack.of sports meant that she came home “prettyexhausted”. “I think I need another week offjust to recover from it all,” she joked upongetting back to home base at Te Puke PoliceStation.John Clare Memorial Run/Walk celebrates its 30th yearThe 30th anniversary of the John ClareMemorial Fun Run/Walk was held in Orewain mid-October.John Clare was a Counties-Manukau policeofficer who took his own life back in 1978.His work colleagues started the run in hismemory and it has since become an annualevent.The event is open to all Police employeesand is supported by the Auckland DistrictCommanders. It aims to raise awareness ofjob-related stress and also to enhance staffmorale through physical activity and a fun dayout. Both the Auckland Board of Managementand District Council of Sports acknowledgethe significance of this event and in doing soprovide the funding required for it to exist.Something for everyoneCategories included both team and individualraces and 5km walking and runningdisciplines. A ‘Golden Oldies’ category,prizes for the best-dressed team and over 50spot prizes were included, the latter courtesyof the NZ Police Association.Seamus O’Loan made it back-to-backvictories by repeating his 2007 victory in afast 17.40, with a long gap back to secondplacegetter Patrick Wells who clocked arespectable 19.08 nevertheless. Gavin Keanetook third place in 19.32. O’Loan retained theJohn Hughes Shield as a result.Women’s raceIn the women’s race things were a good dealcloser with Megan Walton having 19 secondsto spare over nearest rival Nadine Richardsonwith a winning time of 22.37. Kylie McIvortook third place in 23.29.In the individual walk Sonelia Carstens cut outthe 5k in 37.21, with Danny Morice a closesecond only nine seconds further back.In a repeat performance of their effort lastyear the Orewa team ‘Late Starters’ againVisit www.policeassn.org.nz for updated contact details for the Police Council of Sport management committee,District Sports Officers and the latest schedule of events.286 December 2008

New Zealand Police AssociationJohn Clare Memorial Run/Walk• They’re off: And early on it looks a bit like the charge of the Light Brigade in the John Clare Memorial Run. Eventual winner Seamus O’Loansoon had a stranglehold on proceedings however and left the others in his wake, winning in a good time of 17.40 for the 5k run.took home the John Clare Memorial Trophy inthe team event. There was, however, a newwinner for the ‘Mark Leys Team Walk Trophy’donated by the Police Association. It was aclose race but ‘Sonelia’s Snails’ managedto just hold out last year’s champions, the‘Rewa Tortoises’.Results were:5k run (women):1st Megan Dalton. 2nd Nadine Richardson.3rd Kylie McIvor5k run (men):1st Seamus O’Loan. 2nd Patrick Wells.3rd Gavin Keane.Individual 5k Walk:1st Sonelia Carstens. 2nd Danny Morice.Team Walk:1st Sonelia’s Snails (Counties-Manukau HRTeam): Sonelia Carstens, Joan Clarkson, JudyCope, Ying Wang. 2nd ): Rewa Tortoises.Team Run:1st ‘Late Starters’ (Orewa staff): Greg Foster,Simon Hooker, Steve Hunt, Graham Bennett).2nd Team Alpha (Simon Walker, Matt Hooper,Andrew Tangney, Mike Boston).• Spencer Matthews presents the Mark LeysCup to the winning walking team: SoneliaCarstens (holding cup), Joan Clarkson,Ying Wang, Judy Cope.Best dressed Team:‘Don’t Hassle the Hoff’ (Waitakere TeamPolicing).• The winning team from Orewa, the LateStarters: Greg Foster (holding the cup),Graham Bennett, Steve Hunt, SimonHooker, Andrew McGregor and MarleOvington.Golden Oldies:1st Mike Morgan. 2nd Chris Batey.Officer Fitness Reports – worse than the PCT!The British military writes Officer Fitness Reports (OFRs) about itsofficers. These are actual excerpts from some historical OFRs (RoyalNavy and Royal Marines):• His men would follow him anywhere but only out of curiosity.• I would not breed from this officer.• When she opens her mouth, it seems that this is only to changewhichever foot was previously there.• He would be out of his depth in a car park puddle.• He reminds me very much of a gyroscope – always spinningaround at a frantic pace but not really going anywhere.• This young lady has delusions of adequacy.• When he joined my ship, this officer was something of a granny;since then he has aged considerably.• Since my last report he has reached rock bottom, and hasstarted to dig.• She sets low personal standards and then consistently fails toachieve them.• He has the wisdom of youth and the energy of old age.• This officer should go far – and the sooner he starts thebetter.• In my opinion this pilot should not be authorised to fly below250 feet.• The only ship I would recommend this man for is citizenship.• Works well under constant supervision and when cornered likea rat in a trap.• This man is depriving a village somewhere of an idiot.December 2008287

PoliceNewsThe Voice of PoliceGood courses and good competitionat Police Cycling ChampionshipsThe Police Cycling Champs were held on 28-29 October. The event was opened to otherservices and there were a small numberof competitors from the Air Force and FireService.The event is open to all levels of cyclingcompetitor. There are categories for seriousriders in both age category and opendivisions, with a recreational category forthose that just want to be involved and enjoythe event/course, atmosphere and of coursea road trip.On the first morning’s competition 17competitors had a staggered start for thehill climb event at the base of the WaitakereRanges, which challenged the riders with asolid climb (with slight variations of inclinebetween steep and very steep) for just overtwo kilometres.Road raceIn the afternoon, 36 competitors lined up forthe road race, which was run around an 11kmcircuit set on the country roads around Kumeu/Taupaki. The open men’s competitors did sixlaps while all other competitors raced overfour. The course started with a flat sectionthat progressed into a very slight climb beforea slight decline back on to the flat for thestart/finish.The Air Force hosted the road event prizegiving at the Whenuapai Airbase.Cross-countryWednesday morning saw 34 competitorsgather for the cross-country mountainbikeevent at Woodhill Bikepark. The eventwas over 11 kilometres. The course wasmanageable for all levels of rider. It wasinteresting and challenging with some fastsweeping sections, some small climbs andsome slightly technical sections.The downhill race was run at RiverheadForest in the early afternoon. Gareth Davisand fellow Auckland Downhill Club membersbuilt the course especially for the champsand as recognition of this the track has beennamed “The Baconator”.Tough descentTwenty-one riders took their lives in theirhands and descended this particularly deathdefyingpiece of terra firma. Although medicalstaff were on standby as a precaution,they were only required to attend to a fewscratches and grazes.The final prizegiving was held at the Policebar with plenty of war stories on offer amidsta good feed and a few quiet ales.Results were:Hill climb:Men: Vaughan Smith 1, Dan Walyszewski 2,Tony Brownrigg 3.Women: Paula Morice 1. Lisa Hogan 2.Veterans: Eddie Sutherland 1, Julian Millar 2,Todd Hewett 3.Super-vets: Steve Wilson 1, Paul Macky 2,Matt Prendergast 3.Road race:Non-Police: Todd Hewlett 1, Julian Millar 2,Graham Russell 3.Recreational: Nathan Prendergast 1, NatalieRapira 2, Vivian Clark 3.Men: Dan Walyszewski 1, Ryan Blair 2,Vaughan Smith 3.Women: Brigid Anderson 1, Paula Morice 2.Megan D’Olivera 3.Veterans: George White 1, Chris Best 2, DaveMartin 3.Super-vets: Steve Wilson 1, Paul Macky 2,Matt Prendergast 3.Cross-country:Non-Police: Joshua Taylor 1, Julian Millar 2,Aroha Hyland 3.Women: Paula Morice 1, Lisa Hogan 3,Michelle Bentley 3.Men: Tony Brownrigg 1, Jake Rowse 2,Vaughan Smith 3.Recreational: Gareth Davis 1, Cyrus Robinson2, Greg Norton 3.Veterans: Andrew Skelton 1, Eddie Sutherland2, Dave Martin 3.Super-vets: Richie Williams 1, Stephen Peat2, Paul Macky 3.Downhill:Men: Lewis Hamilton 1 (non Police), DavidHamilton 2, Gareth Davis 3.Women: Misty Lee 1, Rachel Taylor 2, LisaHogan 3.Veterans: Tony Edmonds (RNZAF) 1, JulianMiller (RNZAF) 2, Craig Hammond 3.Super-vets: Dermot Ford 1, Andy Gilbert 2,Paul Macky 3.• Dave Martin prepares to launch off a piece of downhill terrain.288December 2008

New Zealand Police Association• Riders in the road race start to attack one of the undulations on the course.Wellington/Kaikohecomposite teamtakes NI bowls title• Gareth Davis gets a taste of the challenging downhill course hehelped design.The N.Z. Police Association North Island Lawn Bowls Championsips wereheld in Taupo on the 5th and 6th of November.The weather played its part but only 30 minutes of play was lost on bothdays to rain, which at one stage threatened to become hail.For the maximum field of 14 teams who braved the elements, there wassome outstanding bowls played with a composite team from Wellington/Kaikohe of Dan and Phil Dickison, Brendon Gibson and Rob Veale takingout the title.Taupo team runners-upThe Taupo team, skipped by Andy Campbell, was runner-up and BrianGuy’s team from Tauranga came a very close third on points differential.The event will once again be held in Taupo on the 4th and 5th of November2009, so get those all-important holiday homes/motels booked early toavoid disappointment.The Taupo Bowling Club has kindly offered to host next year’s tournamentand is congratulated for the quality of the greens and the meals offered onboth days.Use of 0800 Ten Nine phone lineAssociation representatives maintain this telephone line (0800 8366463) on a 24-hour basis.It is to be used ONLY for matters that cannot be deferred, such asPolice shootings, fatal pursuits or deaths in custody.Important and immediate industrial and legal advice can then bearranged through the Association networks.Please do not phone this line for non-urgent matters.December 2008289

PoliceNewsThe Voice of Police• The winning team in the N.Z. Police Association North Island Lawn Bowls Championships held in Taupo in November. Left to right, Rob Veale(Wellington), Phil Dickison (Wellington), Dan Dickison (Kaikohe) and Brendon Gibson (Wellington).We remember…Who passed away…LEASK Thomas Bernard 15-Oct-08 Retired member NapierLESLIE Alexander James 24-Oct-08 Retired member WellingtonMARRIOTT Ester Mary 29-Oct-08 Widow of member LevinLOVEGROVE Russell Frederick 5-Nov-08 Retired member HastingsSTEBBINGS James Harold Dodson 8-Nov-08 Retired member BrisbaneDecember January FebruaryWAIHEKE ISLAND ........................... Fully booked ..................................................Christmas ballot .......................................................Fully bookedPAIHIA............................................ Fully booked ..................................................Christmas ballot .......................................................4,8STANMORE BAY ............................. 7-11,16,26 ....................................................Christmas ballot .......................................................8-13,17-19,22-27AUCKLAND .................................... Fully booked ..................................................Christmas ballot .......................................................4,10,18WHANGAMATA ............................... 11,15,17-20,24 .............................................Christmas ballot .......................................................10MT MAUNGANUI ............................ 8 ....................................................................Christmas ballot .......................................................2OHOPE ........................................... 7,11,14-15,19 ...............................................Christmas ballot .......................................................8-11,17-18ROTORUA ...................................... 8-11,14-18,21 ...............................................Christmas ballot .......................................................5,8-12,16-19,22-25TAUPO ........................................... 7-8,10,15-16,19, ...........................................Christmas ballot .......................................................10,17,19,23-26TURANGI ........................................ 7-11,14-19,23 ...............................................Christmas ballot .......................................................4-5,8-12,14-22NAPIER .......................................... 9 ....................................................................Christmas ballot .......................................................1-5,11-12,16,24PARAPARAUMU .............................. 8 ....................................................................Christmas ballot .......................................................16-19GREYTOWN .................................... 7-10,14,16,21 ...............................................Christmas ballot .......................................................1,3,9-12,16-19,22-25WELLINGTON ................................. Fully booked ..................................................Christmas ballot .......................................................18NELSON ......................................... Fully booked ..................................................Christmas ballot .......................................................6-7HANMER SPRINGS ......................... 10 ..................................................................Christmas ballot .......................................................1-2,8,12,16CHRISTCHURCH ............................. 26 ..................................................................Christmas ballot .......................................................12,17,20,24TEKAPO ......................................... 10-11,15 .......................................................Christmas ballot .......................................................12,23,25WANAKA ........................................ 14-17 ............................................................Christmas ballot .......................................................25-26CROMWELL ................................... 18,22,26 ........................................................Christmas ballot .......................................................21QUEENSTOWN ............................... Fully booked ..................................................Christmas ballot .......................................................11,24TE ANAU ........................................ 12,14-15,21-26 .............................................Christmas ballot .......................................................10-12,15,17-18,27DUNEDIN ....................................... 8-9,14 ...........................................................Christmas ballot .......................................................5,18,23-26290December 2008

New Zealand Police AssociationHome buying hints fromThe National BankManaging your mortgageWith rising prices and the weakening economy, many households arestarting to feel the pinch. High food and (until recently) high petrol priceshave put pressure on budgets. With the Christmas and holiday seasonapproaching many people are reviewing their fi nancial commitments likehome loans and other debt, to make sure they are positioned to managethrough the current environment. Here are some tips to help.1. The importance ofbudgetingIn the last issue of Police Newswe discussed the value of havinga household budget. It’s vitalas it gives you control over yourspending. By knowing exactlywhere your money goes, you canmake choices about how you spendit. For example, can you reallyafford that overseas holiday – orwould you have just as good a timeenjoying some of the fantasticholiday destinations New Zealandhas to offer? What else could youdo with the money you spend onyour daily cup of coffee? You maystill choose to take a holiday or buythe coffee but at least you can seewhat impact it will have on your othercommitments. To help you put abudget together, check out our onlinebudget planner at:www.nationalbank.co.nz2. Think carefully beforegoing into debtIt’s tempting to buy things with acredit card or on hire purchase. Butremember, (a) you have to pay itback and (b) you also have to payinterest – so it could end up costingyou a lot more than you think.Used wisely, credit cards and hirepurchase can be a convenient wayof getting the things you need – butmake sure you understand the truecosts involved.3. If you’re under financialpressure, talk to yourbankIf you’re having trouble makingrepayments on your mortgage,the worst thing you can do isignore it. Your bank can help youunderstand what your options areand suggest ways to address theissues. Everyone’s circumstancesare different so there’s no ‘one-sizefi ts all’ solution. Here are some ofthe options that may be available ifyou’re under fi nancial pressure:• Consolidating your debt – if youhave other debts like credit cards,hire purchase or personal loans,it may be possible to consolidatethem all into one loan and savemoney on interest costs (aswell as making them easier tomanage);• Interest-only payments – it maybe possible to change your homeloan to interest-only repaymentsin the short term. This will freeup some cash as you’re notrepaying any principal. However adownside will be that you will notbe reducing the amount you oweon your home loan.It’s always a good idea to regularlyreview your fi nances, so the keyis not to wait until things get out ofcontrol. Your bank is willing to helpyou so don’t hesitate to ask forassistance or to talk things over.If you’d like more information aboutPolice Home Loans fromThe National Bank, call:0800 800 808, or contactyour local branch or MobileMortgage Manager.OUR LENDING CRITERIA, TERMS, CONDITIONS AND FEES APPLY. A COPY OF OUR DISCLOSURE STATEMENT MAY BEOBTAINED THROUGH ANY BRANCH OF THE NATIONAL BANK OF NEW ZEALAND (PART OF ANZ NATIONAL BANK LIMITED).FOR BORROWING OVER 80% OF A PROPERTY’S VALUE, A LOW EQUITY PREMIUM ON A GRADUATED SCALE WILL APPLYAND A REGISTERED VALUER’S REPORT IS REQUIRED. THIS MATERIAL IS PROVIDED AS A COMPLIMENTARY SERVICE OFTHE NATIONAL BANK. IT IS PREPARED BASED ON INFORMATION AND SOURCES THE BANK BELIEVES TO BE RELIABLE. ITSCONTENT IS FOR INFORMATION ONLY, IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND IS NOT A SUBSTITUTE FOR COMMERCIAL JUDGEMENTOR PROFESSIONAL ADVICE, WHICH SHOULD BE SOUGHT PRIOR TO ENTERING INTO ANY TRANSACTIONS. TO THE EXTENTPERMITTED BY LAW THE NATIONAL BANK DISCLAIMS LIABILITY OR RESPONSIBILITY TO ANY PERSON FOR ANY DIRECTOR INDIRECT LOSS OR DAMAGE THAT MAY RESULT FROM ANY ACT OR OMISSION BY ANY PERSON IN RELATION TO THEMATERIAL.December 2008291

PoliceNewsThe Voice of PoliceWrite it here! Letters to the Editor are welcome.Signed letters are preferred, but in all cases the writer’s name and address must be supplied. Names will be published unless there is a goodreason for anonymity. The editor reserves the right to edit, abridge or decline letters without explanation. Email to: editor@policeassn.org.nz orwrite it to the Editor at PO Box 12344, Wellington. Letters under 400 words are preferred.It’s hard finding the perfect hatI read Callum Young’s letter “There is no I inteam” in the last issue of Police News.I too was taken aback little when I saw thearticle as I have been trying for about 2 yearsto get a decent cap to wear in cold weatherstations. There is nothing in our uniform thatwould be of use. I work out of Turangi andcover the Desert Road. When it is blowing agale up there and the snow or rain is falling,the Beanie I have would have to be the coldestbit of head-dress I own. The wind goesstraight through it and it has no protectionfrom the rain. The Acubra is the hardest thingto keep on in strong wind. The forage cap isthe next best thing for keeping the rain outbut also blows off the head with ease. Nodoubt, at some stage, every staff member hashad the misfortune to have to chase their capdown the road.I came across a cap in a store in Taupo thatwas made of a waterproof fabric and hadpossum fur as a lining. It had a peak on thefront of it and sides that folded down, alsowith possum fur, to cover the ears. Hills Hatsmake the possum hat and I note they are alsothe makers of our forage caps. A phonecallto them and I was told: “No problems, wecan make them in the same colour as theuniform”. I contacted the O/C Senior Sergeantin Invercargill and was told: “ We have about120 staff here and it is called a cold weatherstation, we would love to have something likethat”. These guys are just a few that meet thecriteria.So off I went to those that approve uniformsand was told: “It’s not on our priority list atthe moment, we are too busy rolling out thenew shirts”. What’s wrong with this group,can they only do one thing at a time? Solike Callum, I was really surprised to seethey could work on a single turban for onemember (I have no problem with him havingit by the way) and not look after those thatsuffer from the cold.Steve McLardy(Turangi)Stinking hot in overallsIt’s been 12 months since I was issued withmy Stab Resistant Body Armour (SRBA) andnow into a second summer wearing it withmy overalls.Yes, that’s right, overalls.Over this time, I have read about variousproblems that have arisen since theintroduction and I can only say that maybethe testing and issuing of the SRBA is not assuccessful as many people may think.Of note, I now read that there has been asuccessful rollout of the new frontline shirts tobe worn with the SRBA. If it is so successful,why am I, along with other handlers aroundthe country still wearing overalls under theSRBA? Why have we been left out of the loop?Are we not frontline staff as well?Perhaps someone in Police can please explainto me why I have to purchase my ownbreathable shirts to wear underneath andwhy I still have to put up with changing myuniform twice daily due to it being soakingwet with sweat? Very hygienic indeed.I have been told to wear shorts during theday, but, hello, it is also hot and very muggyhere in Hawke’s Bay during the night as well.The overalls offer the protection we needand I don’t fancy my white legs becominga beacon but I guess it would mean that Iwouldn’t have to wear my reflectorised jacketwhen stopping cars.I don’t see anyone dealing with this issue andhave been told that due to a lack of moneyit is being put on the back burner. It maybe OK for people who sit in air conditionedoffices thinking that there isn’t a problem, buttry putting on a pair of Police issue overalls,donning the SRBA and running around for awhile. Then you may see it.The Police have been very good in providinga 10-point charter on how to stay cool andeven put something on the bullyboard to tellus how to prevent the velcro from maybegetting caught when putting on the SRBA;but so far, have given little thought to thisdilemma.The answer to this problem is simple. Give usthe shirts along with the cargo pants that areissued for overseas deployment. These pantslook no different from the overalls. Why arewe trying to invent the wheel when we mayhave sufficient items in stock to do the job?Can someone please deal with this issue andget it sorted, rather than let it roll over to athird summer? The issue was jumped on andresolved quickly for General Duties Branchstaff, why is taking so long for handlers?Andrew Knox(Hawke’s Bay)We approached Police about this issue andthey said they were still working on resolvingit. – EditorWhat about a “no risk” scheme?NZ Police employs many people who are overthe age of 50, with a reasonable percentage ofthem being 55 and above.At the beginning of this year, I asked thePolice Association if any consideration hadbeen given to allowing a fourth category ofinvestment in PSS that would be closer to “norisk”. This could appeal to members in thefinal years of their service.I was informed this was already being lookedat. Is there an update on this situation,please?Although recent events have precluded anybenefit to “retiring members”, should such ascheme emerge, over the next few months, itmay be of assistance in the next decade.We may now be in a situation where staffremain in our job for longer than is goodfor them, or us, simply because the PoliceSuperannuation Scheme has not coveredgenerational needs.A familiar saying of the last few weeks isthat history shows the world economies willbounce back and markets will re-establish,giving a good return over length of service.There are many employees currently inPolice who don’t have that period of serviceremaining.Lynne Turner(New Plymouth)PSS Chairman Malcolm Johnson replies:“The Trustees have taken a decision tointroduce a cash option into the Scheme.They are now taking the necessaryadministrative steps to implement this optionand members can reasonably expect such anoption to be available by mid-2009.A heartfelt thanks to all of youIt’s been over four months since my partnerDerek Wootton was killed while on duty. Ithas been an incredibly tough time for me andthere’s not a day that goes by where I don’tthink of him and miss him dearly.It has taken this long to put pen to paper, butthe time has come to thank those of you whohave made the huge void in my life a little biteasier to cope with.Firstly, thanks to the New Zealand Policefor the huge amount of support they havegiven to my family, Derek’s family and me.The large number of cards, flowers, textmessages and Emails I received from all overthe country and overseas was overwhelming,and the sheer size of Derek’s funeral showedme how much he was respected and liked.I would also like to thank John Spence, theArea Commander for Kapiti Mana and thestaff at Porirua Station for your support at thetime and the ongoing support you still giveme.To Mike Oxnam and the CIB team whoare working on Derek’s case, thank you foryour honesty, professionalism and on goingupdates. I know this can’t be easy for you.To the staff at Upper Hutt Station andespecially Billy Slight and section four, thankyou for your continual support. Thanks tothe staff at all three Communication Centres.Especially the staff at Central Communicationsand in particular PJ, Marc, Hector and myentire group. You are a great team and youall rallied around me and helped make myreturn to work that much easier. Thanks toall the Hutt Valley staff for your patiencewhen I did return to dispatching.To Commissioner Howard Broad and292December 2008

New Zealand Police AssociationSuperintendent Pieri Munro thanks for yourkind words. To Greg O’Connor, the PoliceAssociation and Welfare Fund thank you.Tony Smith - what can I say? You were a rockthrough those first few days, arranging Derek’sfuneral and just anything and everything thatneeded to be sorted. You went beyond thecall of duty and I will never forget all that youhave done for me.I also want to give a special thanks to Shaunand Huxy - you have both been amazing andI thank you from the bottom of my heart.To Derek’s Section, Sean, Mike, Paul, Gareth,Jen, Johno and also Amy and Justin thankyou for the support you have given me. Noone knows better than me how Derek feltabout you all - you kept him young, you kepthim going. Last but not least, a special thanksto Sue for everything you did for Derek onthat morning, you have my deepest heart feltappreciation. I will never forget.Bronwyn Hewitt(Wellington)An open letter to thePolice CommissionerMy husband has served in the New ZealandPolice for 17 years. I am also writing notonly in my capacity as his wife but as ajournalist and media specialist eith 23 yearsexperience.Almost weekly I watch in despair as yetanother story hits the headlines referring toPolice incompetence. Whether or not it istrue, the headline has been published andthe public will have already pronounced itsverdict. Yet time and time again it can be daysbefore we hear anything from Police HQ.Obviously police need time to investigate,however for every hour and every dayof silence, that is another day the publicis convinced that the Police are coveringsomething up. That is another day theirconfidence in the Police, who are sworn topreserve life and protect property, is shaken.As you well know, we are a society that kicksa dog when it’s down, and everyone gets inon it. I am ashamed to say that my professionrelies on those headlines to sell papers andfill bulletins. At a time when police moraleappears to be at an all time low (public opinionrates police officers just below Trade Me inthe trusted professions) I am astounded atthe lack of pro-activity by police leaders. Thedamage done by the likes of Clint Rickards ishard to recover from. What Police leadershipshould be doing is getting the public backonside, and doing it quickly.In mid-June, for the first time in a long while,we got to see a positive police story; RayMalesala, Campbell Live. There needs to bemore of those stories out there in the media.There are some amazing officers doingamazing things but also there are officersfacing the daily grind, the routine that no onehas any idea about.Your staff are out there putting their lives onthe line, being spat at, abused, tormented,ridiculed, but they are also there comfortinga distraught parent whose child has justcommitted suicide, picking up the piecesafter a fatal car accident, witnessing childabuse through parent neglect. The publicneeds to hear these stories.To my mind a few dollars spent on somedecent PR, a strategy to win back the trustof the public, by experts who know whatthey are doing, will begin to restore publicconfidence.I see my husband come home from his shift,recount the day or night’s events, and tryand live normally, while feeling the worldis against him and his colleagues. I see aman who only ever wanted to be a policeofficer, despite the very best private schooleducation, an IQ which would be consideredtoo high in today’s recruiting programme,become a disillusioned, cynical man, angrywith the incompetence of his leaders andfeeling absolutely powerless. And nowherecan I see the hierarchy doing anything aboutimproving the morale, or being pro-active inimproving the organisation’s public image.I speak as a wife and a journalist. The publicneeds to start hearing some real stories aboutthe good job our police officers do. Above all,our police officers need strong leadership togive them a reason for turning up every day.They need to have their pride restored.The Police can’t afford to lose any moreofficers like my husband. They are becomingfew and far between.Anna Thomas(Auckland)“ Whatever course you decide upon, there is someone to tell you that you arewrong. There are always difficulties arising, which tempt you to believe thatyour critics are right. To map out a course of action and follow it to an endrequires courage “ `– Ralph Waldo Emerson.“I have always thought of Christmas time, when it has come round, as a goodtime; a kind, forgiving, charitable time; the only time I know of, in the longcalendar of the year, when men and women seem by one consent to open theirshut-up hearts freely, and to think of people below them as if they really werefellow passengers to the grave, and not another race of creatures bound onother journeys.”– Charles Dickens.“A government which robs Peter to pay Paul can always depend on the supportof Paul.”- George Bernard Shaw.December 2008293

PoliceNewsThe Voice of PoliceNEW RETAILERPolice AssociationMember Discounts ProgrammeKiwigreen and the Kingsgate Hotel Brydone, in Oamaru havejoined our Member Discounts Programme.Kiwigreen provide a full range of high quality eco-friendlycleaning products and offer members a 20% discount ontheir range of MARINE products and a 12.5% discount onALL OTHER products.Members receive a 20%discount on food andbeverage purchases over$15 at the Kingsgate HotelBrydone, in Oamaru.Conditions apply.To find out about this and other discounts through theMember Discounts Programme - go online to the ‘MembersOnly’ section of our website www.policeassn.org.nz. Sign-onthen click on “Member Discounts” from the menu on the lefthandside of the screen to go through to view all the discountsavailable.Special accommodation offer for members visiting Wellington over holiday periodCome to the Capital and take advantage of thegreat accommodation rate we have negotiatedfor our members.Stay in comfort and style at the West Plaza Hotel and the Bay PlazaHotel, which have once again offered their “Special Summer”room rate to members of the NZ Police Association/Welfare Fundand their families.Special Summer Room Rate$60.00 + GST per room, per nightValidity12th December 2008 to 25th January 2009Booking reference - POL/SUMMER/08-09Conditions: All rooms requested are subject to availability.Reservations must be made prior to arrival.For reservations:West Plaza HotelAddress:Freephone: 0800 731 444Phone: 04 473 1440110 – 116 Wakefield Street, WellingtonFax: 04 474 1454Email: reservations@westplaza.co.nzThe Bay Plaza HotelAddress:Freephone: 0800 857 799Phone: 04 385 779940 – 44 Oriental Parade, WellingtonFax: 04 385 2936Email: reservations@bayplaza.co.nz294December 2008

New Zealand Police AssociationMaking themost of yourhard work.Ever wish there was someone who could step into your world,take your whole financial reality and organise it to your bestadvantage to fast track your goals? Goals like home ownership,buying a new boat or investing for retirement?Are you wanting to better manage your cash resource andput it to work more effectively, looking to identify the bestsavings or investment strategy to meet your objectives, toborrow funds for a residential or commercial property, to funda business? Do you need help to identify how your insuranceprotection fits with your overall financial set-up, are yourfamily and your assets adequately protected? - effectivestructures help you take control of your financial future andcan deliver a greater sense of financial security.Call the Police Financial Planning Enquiry Line 0800 ON BEAT(0800 662 328) to meet with one of our expert financialadvisers in a complimentary no-obligation consultation aboutlong-term financial planning or for specific advice on cashmanagement, investment strategies, debt (mortgages andother loans), insurance protection, tax, financial structures,estate planning, specialist advice on your GSF and PSSmembership and other benefits.Police Pistol Biathlon on in MarchSP1230 Police CS v2.indd 1The Police Pistol Biathlon is a popular international event thatcombines two great sports, cross-country running and pistolshooting.Run too fast and you lose your ability to shoot accurately, spendtoo long shooting (or getting your breath back) and add to youroverall time. Competitors are graded by age.The 2009 Biathlon will be held in the scenic surrounds ofRiverhead Forest–West Auckland on Saturday 7th March 2009.15/5/07 4:26:43 PMAn A-category firearms license is required by all competitors -apply for yours today! (a pistol licence is not required). Guns areprovided for the event along with a BBQ and there will also be afun shotgun side match for competitors and spectators.Contact the organiser cyrus.robinson@police.govt.nz for aninformation pack on the biathlon and on obtaining your licence.1 2 3 4 5 6 7Clues:Across:1. Broken alps complete the circuits (4)3. Safe guards? (8)9. To fault is then to go your fastest (4.3)10. New tactical options weapon (5)11. Comedic (5.7)13. Nose (slang) (6)15. Liquid holder (6)17. Declaration (12)20. Angered (5)21. Manage staff (7)22. An ailment or disorder (8)23. Employs (4)November answersAcross1. Adjusts 14. Degree5. Album 15. Mayday8. Today 17. Medal9. Asp 19. Natural10. Nod 21. Gut11. Railing 22. Set13. Icons 23. Occur24. Dares25. DefusesDown1. Alter2. Judging3. Say4. SlangDown:1. Motionless (8)2. Dent. Crash (5)4. Honour (6)5. Heartened nut remained without predators (12)6. Rather than (7)7. Area behind house? (4)8. To be introduced against gang member (7.5)12. Tidiness (8)14. Revolver (7)16. Tell on (6)18. Limbs (4)19. Razor clams (5)5. Applicant6. Bingo7. Modesty12. Idealises14. Damages16. Directs18. Deter19. Noted20. Lures23. Off89 101113 14 151617 181920 2122 2312December 2008295

Special OfferSix months free Home InsurancePolice Wlf Welfare Fund members drawing down a new Police Home Loan will be eligible for six monthsfree Home Insurance* with Police Fire & General Insurance, through the Police Welfare Fund.New Police Home Loan PackageWhether you’re refi nancing, buying your fi rst home, selling, investing in property, building or looking for ways to manage your currenthome loan – a Police Home Loan through The National Bank may be able to help.The Police Home Loan package provides attractive benefi ts to Police Welfare Fund members and their immediate family, like:• No Home Loan application fee• 0.50% p.a. off the standard National Bank Floating and Flexible Home Loan interest rates• The lowest possible rate on fi xed interest rate loans without having to negotiate and regardless of your loan size• A contribution of $500 towards legal fees• A small fee of $100 for a top-up on an existing loan• Discount on Low Equity Premium fees if your loan is between 80% to 95% of the property value.OUR POLICE HOME LOAN PACKAGE IS HIGHLY COMPETITIVE AND FLEXIBLE.THIS IS A SUMMARY ONLY, FOR TERMS AND CONDITIONS OR FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO APPLY FOR THE POLICE HOME LOANPACKAGE VISIT WWW.POLICEASSN.ORG.NZ, CALL THE NATIONAL BANK LENDING SPECIALISTS ON 0800 800 808,EMAIL DIRECT@NBNZ.CO.NZ OR VISIT ANY BRANCH OF THE NATIONAL BANK.11-08Useful Information & ContactsNew Zealand Police Association:For immediate industrial & legal advice(on matters that cannot be deferred such as Policeshootings, fatal pursuits or deaths in custody)ring 0800 TEN NINE (0800 836 6463)– 24 hour/seven days servicePolice Network 44446 Website www.policeassn.org.nzFreephone 0800 500 122 Police Home Loans 0800 800 808Police Health Plan/Police Fire and General Insurance Police Credit Union 0800 429 000Quotes & information 0800 500 122 or (04) 472 9645or Fax (04) 496 6819 Credit Union www.policecu.org.nzPolice Fire and General Insurance claims 0800 110 088 GSF information 0800 654 731All enquiries (04) 496 6800 PSS information 0800 777 243Vice PresidentsStuart Mills (027) 268 9416Chris Cahill (027) 268 9411Field OfficersAuckland District: Stewart Mills (027) 268 9407Waitemata and Northland Districts: Steve Hawkins (027) 268 9406Waikato, BOP and Eastern Districts: Graeme McKay (027) 268 9408Central and Wellington Districts: JJ Taylor (027) 268 9409Tasman and Canterbury Districts: Dave McKirdy (027) 268 9410Southern District Dave Steel (027) 268 9427Regional DirectorsRegion One Jug Price Whangaparaoa (027) 268 9419Region Two Dave Pizzini Counties-Manukau (027) 493 0524Region Three Mel Ridley Tauranga (027) 268 9414Region Four Luke Shadbolt Hastings (027) 478 9001Region Five Ron Lek Wellington (027) 268 9417Region Six Craig Prior Sydenham (027) 268 9412Region Seven Tracey Maclennan Invercargill (027) 268 9418