August 12, 2025 • 34 mins
The Police Commissioner says he feels for his staff as a top cop faces the courts.
Former Deputy Police Commissioner Jevon McSkimming is facing eight charges of possessing child exploitation and bestiality material.
He resigned after a period of suspension on full pay since December, during a separate investigation.
Richard Chambers told Kerre Woodham he is angry, disappointed, and let-down – and knows staff feel the same.
But he says it also shows nobody is above the law, no matter their rank.
In terms of police recruits, he hopes work will begin on a second police college wing for Auckland early next year.
An Auckland Campus opened last month as an alternative to the Porirua facility.
Forty recruits will graduate in coming months.
Chambers says it's going exceptionally well, and he's committed to expanding the operation.
He told Woodham it gives aspiring officers more flexibility on training.
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Episode Transcript
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Speaker 1 (00:06):
You're listening to the Kerry Wooden Mornings podcast from News Talk,
said B.
Speaker 2 (00:11):
News Talk said B. It is seven pass ten, Carrie
wood I'm with you through until midday and through until
eleven o'clock. We have Richard Chambers, our police Commissioner, joining
us in the studio. Very very good morning to you. Thanks,
very nice to have you here. You've been in the
role now for eight months.
Speaker 3 (00:33):
Gone very fast, I.
Speaker 2 (00:34):
Bet it has so. Yeah, good to catch up. We
did have your predecessor in it. I'm hoping for more
straight answers. It was very good at speaking the speak
of the bureaucrats and decision makers.
Speaker 4 (00:51):
Well, I'm a policeman and I've maintained from day one
that i never want to lose sight.
Speaker 3 (00:55):
Of how important that is.
Speaker 4 (00:56):
Yeah, especially when I lead such a big team of
amazing people. You know, I've been with some of them
this morning actually here in Auckland, and love talking police things, challenges,
opportunities and at the end of the day, my placement.
Speaker 3 (01:09):
I'll always do my best.
Speaker 2 (01:10):
Yeah, we'll see it already already A good answer. Oh,
eight hundred eighty ten eighty is the number to call
if you have a question for our police commissioner. He's
got a message for you, a safety message before we start.
Speaker 4 (01:25):
Yes, Kerry, look, my first message is where sunscreen? And
today I'm here and I know the cameras are rolling.
You know, it looks like I have something Bad's happened
to me actually, but in fact this is the consequence
of running around as a kid in New Zealand without
wearing sunscreen. And so my wife just said to me, Richard,
you need to go and sort that out. So I'm
(01:45):
just working my way through getting the treatment for my
skin so it doesn't develop into anything worse. But that's
my message to everyone out there, especially the young kids.
Wear sunscreen.
Speaker 2 (01:56):
As the song said back in the nineties. Nothing cancerous though, or.
Speaker 4 (02:00):
No no good to be ahead of these things though.
Speaker 2 (02:02):
Yeah, absolutely absolutely. Now let's start with some good news
to Auckland's Police College. How is that going.
Speaker 4 (02:10):
That's going exceptionally well. We've got forty graduate sorry recruits
there graduating in a few months time. I was very
proud to be there on their first day talking to them,
and the feedback that I'm getting from them is it's
going exceptionally well. So what we're doing now is actually
looking at the second Auckland wing and I'm really hoping
(02:32):
that that will be underway very early in the new year.
Speaker 2 (02:35):
And the rationale behind an Auckland college.
Speaker 4 (02:38):
Will there's cap Yeah, there's been people who, for whatever
family personal reason, have struggled with twenty weeks down in Pottydoer.
So this is about an opportunity for those that have
always aspired to be a member of New Zealand Police
and by giving them the opportunity to train here in
Auckland and go home at the end of the day children,
(03:01):
whatever their family situations, well, why wouldn't we give them
that opportunity? And I asked them the question on day one,
how many are you here? Because how many of you
are here because we've given you the opportunity to train
here in Auckland. Most of them put their hand up,
So that said to me that what a wonderful opportunity
we can give them. And that's why we're going to
work on a second wing.
Speaker 3 (03:23):
Early in the new year.
Speaker 4 (03:24):
And you know, many of those forty are from Tamaki Miikodo,
but we have eight here.
Speaker 3 (03:29):
Also from Northland.
Speaker 4 (03:31):
It also makes it easier for them to go home
in the weekend because it's a bit closer.
Speaker 2 (03:35):
One for the South Island or is the demand not there.
Speaker 4 (03:39):
At the moment? Our focus is certainly the North Island. Yes,
we are recruiting in the South Island as well, but
right now the need is greater in the North Island.
Speaker 2 (03:47):
And who's applying to become a police officer? Because God
knows it's a calling, not a You don't do it
for the money.
Speaker 4 (03:55):
Well, it's a fantastic job and I'm as passionate thirty
years on from when I started back in ninety six.
You know same, I feel the same as I did
back then. I love this job. It is an exceptional career,
so many different opportunities. And people say, well, why would
you want to work for one organization for so long?
And I say, well, actually, I've done so many different jobs.
(04:16):
It doesn't feel like I've worked for one organization. But
fifteen thousand colleagues around the country do incredible work day
and night, and it is an amazing career with so
many different, exciting opportunities. The variety that you get in
policing is broad and challenging, no doubt, But you know,
the camaraderie that we have helping people in their moment
(04:41):
of most need. It's a very meaningful career and that
is why, in fact, right now we've got we are
receiving more applications monthly than we ever have, and we're
putting a lot of effort into our recruiting obviously around
the country. You know, things like ride along and other
(05:03):
things are getting huge pickup. There's so many good people
out there who want to join you zill On Police.
Because I've so, I've got my team working as fast
as we can to recruit.
Speaker 2 (05:14):
And you're not lowering any of the standards. Remember there
was a bit of who about the ability to swim
and correct that.
Speaker 4 (05:19):
Yeah, No, I've been very clear as Commissioner that standards
and expectations matter. And you know, there may be some
who need to do a little bit extra work on
something if they want to join New zeal On Police,
but I maintain that they will put that extra bitter
effort in if they really want to join you zill
On Police.
Speaker 2 (05:39):
So you tell them where perhaps their application might be lacking,
give them points about what they can do to bring
themselves up to an acceptable level.
Speaker 3 (05:47):
Yes, we do.
Speaker 4 (05:48):
We do have various things underway around the country to
support people in there, you know, the aspiration to join
your zeal On police or whatever that may be.
Speaker 2 (05:56):
All right, we'll go to a caller first. I have questions,
but you know I did throw open the invitation. So
Kiri your first cab off the rank.
Speaker 5 (06:05):
Yes, good morning. Very frustrating to see that the police
turn their turn the blind eye on people driving and
riding like idiots on their roads. We're pulling well stands.
Bikes aren't registered, bikes aren't warranted. Cars that aren't registered,
(06:25):
cars are unwarranted. I saw a car on the road
the other day twenty eighteen, and they had kids in it.
And yet you guys will pull over a guy going
for a red light, a guy not wearing a seat belt,
and you tend to just turn the blind eye on
these and people are getting really peas.
Speaker 4 (06:47):
Off of it.
Speaker 5 (06:49):
What's what's going to happen? I mean, I mean on
on the road all day and I have nearly hit
two or three of them. I know for a fact
that they'll get all the inmates to come back and
beat me up because it's my fault.
Speaker 4 (07:03):
Kerry, look good question. I have a large part of
my organization out there policing our roads. Sadly, New Zealand
still has far too many people dying and being harmed
on our roads, and I know that my staff are
very committed to policing roads. Yes, we're not always going
(07:25):
to be able to deal with every situation, but I
concur with exactly what you said. Yesterday, I drove from
Wellington to Auckland. I could easily fly, but I like
to drive because I can visit my staff along the
way and observe behaviors on the roads myself. And when
I drive a police car, as I said at the
beginning of this session with Kerry, I'm still a policeman
(07:48):
and so there's no reason why I can't help enforce
the law because I don't want anybody being harmed on
the roads or worse. So there may be times when
you're frustrated, and I'm sure you're not alone. I'm certainly
with you when I'm not working, if you like, and
driving around of my own car, and I see behaviors
(08:08):
that disappoint me as well. But we do do a
remarkable job. We are working really, really hard, and anybody
who's experienced trauma on New Zealand roads know while we'll
continue to work for your heart.
Speaker 2 (08:21):
The road checks, you know, the licensed checks and the
breath checks and things. How many actual crims do they
pull up? How many people do you get who are
breaking the law or who you know might you might
think there's a rifle in the back of this car
and that shouldn't be there.
Speaker 3 (08:38):
Yeah, actually, very good question, Kerry. Look.
Speaker 4 (08:40):
I from time to time, of course, when something presents
before my frontline staff, they need grounds to have a
closer look. That could be the smell of drugs, It
could be that they've seen something in the car as
some sort of a weapon. Of course, one of the
things I'm most proud about policicing is that our police
officers up and down the country often know their local people,
(09:01):
and sometimes if somebody's known to us to be wanted,
then we can have a chat on them as well.
So it's very hard to put statistics behind your question.
But I know that having participated in things like checkpoints
myself over the years, that you know, you may certainly
be there to help police the roads, but inevitably other
things present, and my staff are good dealing with those
(09:24):
as well.
Speaker 2 (09:25):
We are with our Police Commissioner, Richard Chambers, who's taking
your calls like this one from Sharma good morning to
you Sharma, good morning.
Speaker 6 (09:35):
And I just wanted to ask Commissioner Richard, is a
clarity more than a question. Some of us are over sixty,
but not two over sixty, but physically pretty fit and
still doing the normal things done policing in Alcaha in
countries we migrated from, is there a limitations restrictions that
(09:59):
the police recruitment system have in terms of getting people
like you know, we want to contribute back in some
form in a way and we are not really employment
and hungry, but more or less trying to give back
to the community.
Speaker 3 (10:18):
Very good question, Charma.
Speaker 4 (10:19):
Look through my career in policing, I've seen many join
New Zealand Police in a constabulary way who are in
their fifties. And you know, whatever age you are, you've
still got the same standards and expectations to meet physically
in what have you. But what I probably suggest is
that you don't always have to make a meaningful contribution
(10:42):
to policing just by being constabulary, because we have many jobs.
In fact, five thousand staff in my workforce are civilian
and make just as important contribution to policing in whatever
their roles are. And I think about my staff that
work in the communications centers and a lot of what
(11:02):
we do in terms of interactions with the public. In fact,
seventy three percent of what we do interacting with the
public comes from my non constaborary staff. So so many
different opportunities in policing. If you're very, very keen, you've
just got to keep your eye out for those opportunities.
The sixty you shouldn't get in the way.
Speaker 2 (11:23):
So if you are really really good with computers and
say sixty years old, would you be able to help
out with the white collar crime investigations. Yes, without having
to do the drag the body and the climb over
the wall.
Speaker 4 (11:37):
Absolutely, Kerry. In fact, over the recent few years, my
workforce has expanded because we've needed specialists and you know,
people have skills and knowledge and experience that is fantastic
to us in policing to investigate crime and hold people
to account. That's law enforcement that's developing globally in terms
(11:57):
of realizing that actually those that help us get outcomes
for the communities and individuals aren't always going to be constableary.
Speaker 2 (12:04):
Okay, cool. We have Police Commissioner Richard chambers here taking
your calls couple from the text machine, muzz says, what's
the commissioner's view on citizens arrest? Can I physically stop
someone if they're walking out with a trolley full of
groceries at New World?
Speaker 4 (12:19):
Well, mus safety always comes first, reality is you know,
as we go about our private lives, we see things unfolding.
That is my messages. Just remember the safety of yourself
and others and whatever you might choose to intervene in. Sadly,
and we see it in policing. Sometimes these situations can
(12:40):
result in tragedies and I don't want anybody getting hurt,
but it does happen, So we need to think very
carefully about what intervention means of the public make.
Speaker 2 (12:48):
What's the stance from the police though, Will they prosecute
to try and deter others from making a citizens arrest?
Speaker 4 (12:55):
Well, that's a trick. That's a tricky one, Carrie. No,
as the answer is that, I mean, I can't think
actually of any situations now where we've prosecuted someone because
they've intervened. But obviously when it comes to the use
of force, yes, of course that is a consideration. And
if someone alects to an intervene in a certain situation
and they use force that is not proportionate to the situation,
(13:17):
then that becomes a matter for the police to investigate. So,
you know, we need to be very careful about the
decision making when it comes to these things happening in
the community because they might have other outcomes.
Speaker 2 (13:31):
Michelle asks, mine's more a statement, but how do you
keep up the morale of police who do great investigative
work and bring low lives to court such as the
privileged drug dealer discussed yesterday, only to have the courts
give them home detention. It's absolutely infuriating for members of
the public. I can't imagine what it's like for police.
Speaker 4 (13:51):
Yes, look, I've been a detective in my career as well,
and I've presented cases before the court and you know,
sometimes the outcome hasn't sort of met my own expectations personally,
and I've felt a bit let downarticular when victims are involved.
But the reality is it's not our job to form
a view on that. Our job is to put the
(14:11):
facts before the court, the evidence before the court, and
let the processes take their course. But at the end
of the day, you know, place people are human beings too,
and sometimes outcomes aren't quite what we'd like them to be.
Speaker 2 (14:23):
It was more of a politician's answer than a policeman's answer.
Speaker 4 (14:26):
Well, I have to be careful obviously commenting on decisions
that are not for me to compact on.
Speaker 2 (14:33):
But it does impact on the force because or the service,
the police service. I think it's still called, isn't it,
rather than police force?
Speaker 3 (14:39):
Yes?
Speaker 2 (14:40):
Well, yes, anyway, anyway, it does impact on the men
and women who work in your teams because if they
think that their job is utterly futile, they're doing their
bit to try and keep society and the community safe.
Speaker 3 (14:51):
Yes.
Speaker 2 (14:52):
Agree, So if it impacts on them, then you have
an issue. Can you make and your role as commissioner
make submissions to the Justice Minister, to the courts.
Speaker 3 (15:04):
Yeah.
Speaker 4 (15:04):
In fact, I will tell you now that I had
conversations with two detectives yesterday from one certain part of
New Zealand. They were quite frustrated actually with some outcomes
in relation to matters they'd been working very very hard on.
I gave them the reassurance that I would present their
concerns to my peers in the justice sector, and in
(15:26):
fact I'm meeting with them this afternoon. So my job
is to put our concerns forward and see where that goes.
And you know, if there's an agreement across the sector
that there's something we need to do in one of
those has been the timeliness actually of the justice system,
then we'll do something about that. And that's in part.
Timeliness is one of those issues that we're addressing.
Speaker 2 (15:46):
All right, are you making any inroads when it comes
to the gangs, because you're recruiting so as the gangs.
Speaker 4 (15:53):
Absolutely, I'm very, very proud of my staff across the
country who have embraced the new legislation the wearing of
gang insignia. And I'm not sure how many it is now,
but I think it may be over seven hundred prosecutions
for the wearing insignia. That has helped us to address
the gang issues. And in fact, whilst the gang insignia
(16:14):
is one aspect, the reality is that gangs are responsible
for a very high and disproportionate number of other serious
criminal offending. So we're addressing that too, and we have
thousands of additional charges that have been presented to the
court because as we go about our police work. We
(16:34):
may well be policing things like patches, then we inevitably
are dealing with other things as well, and I look
at that. So I know that there's been a lot
of commentary about gang numbers and stuff like that, but
the reality is my team, teams across the country are
focused on holding gang members to account, and I'm very
very proud of their hard work. And I think we
would all agree that that legislation has definitely gone extremely
(16:59):
well and the compliance level is something that I'm very
very pleased with.
Speaker 2 (17:03):
And my own neighborhood, I used to get so brass
off with them swaggering with the shiny bikes and it
was basically recruiting on the corner where the cafe was.
They'd park up the Harley's and the leathers were immaculate.
If only they could keep their homes as clean as
they keep their bikes, and it just it used to
make me feel like I was having my nose rubbed
(17:25):
in their dirty business.
Speaker 4 (17:27):
Yeah, And you know, one of the things about policing
is that, yes, we work incredibly hard to keep people safe,
but it's also about the feelings of safety, and when
you see an absence of gang members walking down the
road wearing their paraphernalia.
Speaker 3 (17:40):
Then that is helpful for us. All.
Speaker 2 (17:42):
Let's get the elephant in the room out of the way.
Jevin mcskimming, that's disappointing in the extreme, Yes.
Speaker 3 (17:49):
Carry it is. Obviously.
Speaker 4 (17:51):
I can't really have say much it's before the court
right now. But look, I shared a message with all
my staff across the country when things were playing out
in the media, and I expressed my anger and my
disappointment and how let down I felt. And I wanted
to share those feelings with my staff because I know
(18:13):
that's how they feel. But I will say obviously that
you know, police people are not above the law, and frankly,
rank doesn't matter.
Speaker 3 (18:24):
We're all.
Speaker 4 (18:27):
Accountable for the same things as a member of the
public are. So you know, that's as far as I
can say. But I feel for my frontline staff in
particularly out there doing an amazing job day and night,
because when these things do play out, it is them
that often feel the heat from and quite unfairly frankly,
So you know, men and women of my organization do
(18:48):
a remarkable job and it's not a helpful, but it's
the actions of an individual.
Speaker 3 (18:53):
It's before the.
Speaker 2 (18:54):
Court because so much work has been done, hasn't there
on the culture of the police after the Yeah, I'm
trying to think of a polite way of saying it,
but you know, after the horror of the rape boisy culture,
and so much work has been done, Yes it has.
And half of those police officers now wouldn't have been
(19:15):
alive or wouldn't have been at school when that was happening.
And then along comes another bad apple that taints the
whole crop.
Speaker 4 (19:23):
Our reputation is critically important for trust and confidence internally externally,
and we have so much to be proud of. And
when things happen, you know, colleagues, whoever they are, whatever
they've done, if they let us down, they let us
all down.
Speaker 3 (19:38):
And you know, I.
Speaker 4 (19:40):
Had the privilege last year of living in France and
working overseas and working with law enforcement, and throughout that
experience I was constantly reminded of just how lucky we
are in New Zealand to have the support of the public,
the support of each other doing a very very hard job.
So when these things emerge in the way that this
(20:02):
recent experience has, you know that that impacts on all
of us. And I really feel for my team's out there, Dorothy.
Speaker 2 (20:08):
Very good morning to.
Speaker 7 (20:09):
You, Lorena Morena, Oh, I just wanted to pass on praise.
My son has just qualified and was in the last
recruits that the wing has just qualified in July and
pore amazing support, fantastic orientation and the welcome he's had
within the police forces being absolutely amazing.
Speaker 4 (20:32):
Oh, thank you Dorothy. That's fantastic to hear, you know.
And can I say thank you to you because you know,
families are critically important for my staff across the country
and we do do a tough job. Mum's dads, brothers, sisters,
sons and daughters are all part of us being our
absolute very best in policing. So thanks to your support
(20:53):
for your to your son and other for other members
of the family. He's got a tough job, but knowing yeah,
yeah he has, and knowing that he's got your support,
family support and also the police family, you know that
matters and I thank you, Thank you to.
Speaker 3 (21:06):
You, Dorothy.
Speaker 7 (21:07):
Yeah, a lot of problems, so thank you to you
and your staff is that's nothing but praise.
Speaker 3 (21:13):
Thanks very much.
Speaker 2 (21:14):
Fantastic And another one, Lisa says compliments for the outstanding
community policing that's happening in Westport Sergeant Georgie, where is
a gem is Lisa?
Speaker 3 (21:24):
Yep? Well, Lisa's right.
Speaker 4 (21:26):
I've had the privilege of working with Georgie in the
West Coast when I was the district commander for Tasman
and I've seen Georgie at work and she's fantastic for
the teams that she leads, but she's fantastic for the
Westport community as well, So big shout out. I completely
agree with that comment about her. She's a great leader.
Speaker 2 (21:44):
What happens to the rural policing in like culvidon places
like that? How do you make the decision to close
those police stations?
Speaker 3 (21:52):
Well, the good question, Kerrie.
Speaker 4 (21:54):
Yes, there's a proposal out and I'm really hoping that
we get lots of submissions from the community down there
in across Canterbury because it's those submissis that will be
taken into account to help decide if anything happens.
Speaker 2 (22:11):
So why was it raised in the first instance, Because
it causes a lot of unrest, especially when farmers at
the farming community are isolated and they are also targeted
by low lives.
Speaker 4 (22:22):
Yes, look, and I appreciate that it has caused some concern,
but all I can do is encourage people to make
his submission. There's been no decisions made. It's important that
we continually look at how we police and where we.
Speaker 3 (22:36):
Are and what have you.
Speaker 4 (22:37):
But no community should be feeling lot they're not cared
for by police because we do. We want to be
our best for everybody. So I encourage submissions from you
and they will come in and decisions will be made.
And I have met with the district commander at Tony
Hill just the other day and will happily support him
(22:57):
in making the right decisions for communities as well as.
Speaker 2 (23:01):
So the decision hasn't been made to close it.
Speaker 4 (23:03):
No decisions haven't been made yet. No, the phase where
now is just a proposal where we invite submissions, and
you know, I'll learn the fact that, yes, the proposal
should have been released to the community much sooner than
it was. We'll learn from that and be better for
it if we encounter something similar in the future. But
(23:24):
it should have gone out to communities a lot sooner,
and I think they could have understood that what we're
trying to do here is a consult with both internally
and externally and then decisions will be made. So no
decisions have been made at this point.
Speaker 2 (23:36):
I've had a couple of texts from people who've had
run ins with the police when they were young driving
charges minor offenses, but they were convicted. Now they've grown
up as we do, and they'd like to join the police,
but they can't.
Speaker 4 (23:50):
Case by case bas is carrying. That's the reality. Yes,
we need to look at that.
Speaker 3 (23:54):
We need to.
Speaker 4 (23:55):
You know, we do a lot of work to help
understand those that are keen to join the police and
the decisions to allow them to join or not. I
can't comment on individual experiences.
Speaker 2 (24:09):
Do you have sworn staff who might have had a
drink drive conviction in their youth.
Speaker 4 (24:14):
Yes, we have indeed got police people out there who have,
for whatever indiscretion minor join New Zealand Police because we've
got to take a common sense approach to those that
we allow to join.
Speaker 7 (24:27):
You.
Speaker 4 (24:28):
Yes, many of these are a long time ago and
we take that into account. You know, a lot happens
from the youth to where they are as adults, and
so we're not saying no across the board, but we
do need to look closely to make sure that doesn't
impact on their ability to be a good police officer.
Speaker 2 (24:48):
Really nice comments. We even't had to hide the text
machine from the commissioner's people at all, which we sometimes
have to do with politicians. I think it's been a
great deal of I mean, there's always been I think
a faith and trust in our police Tamatha Paul notwithstanding,
you know, I know that there are some people who
perhaps have had bad experiences with police, But there's always
(25:12):
been a faith in our police, I think. But it's
been emboldened. Perhaps people feel more secure and expressing their
support for the police now.
Speaker 4 (25:26):
Yes, and I'm incredibly grateful for that support because it
does matter. And my colleagues across the country, you know,
they've got a tough job to quirie and when we
know that we've got the public out there encouraging us. Hey, look,
I've always said we're not always going to get it right.
(25:46):
You know, we're not perfect, but we do our absolute
best and the support matters. And I'm very grateful and
I know that they are too.
Speaker 2 (25:54):
Everyone's got their favorite officer. Just a quick note to
say thank you for the work you and your team
do across altet or special shout out to Detective Matt
Bull and the sergeant absolute legends their dedication and mutty
don't go on just in and now small community.
Speaker 3 (26:09):
Very nice.
Speaker 4 (26:10):
Thank you is actually had in Pokku not that long ago,
speaking with colleagues there and yeah they don't exceptional job actually,
so thanks to Matt and the same Dan.
Speaker 2 (26:19):
Good morning to you.
Speaker 8 (26:21):
Good morning their commission, and good morning Cairiy. Just saying
you're definitely the right men from the job. I knew
your reputation when you were Tessma. I'd retired before you
joined the job, but I knew your reputation there, had
a lot of cases with your dad in the Supreme Court,
the serious cases, and I believe you're the right men
(26:43):
to the job. But that political question that Cherry mentioned
a little while ago, You've got nine years of the
previous government changed foundational values and it seeped into the
police to overcome there where you are at the present time,
I don't know how you're getting on there, But the
question I wanted to ask you, sir. The patches to
stop visible gang members, which definitely help the public from
(27:07):
an intimidation point of view, but there's something deeper needed
to stop the numbers going, and I was suggesting perhaps
the gangs, the serious ones, the Monkeys and the Black Power,
these ones being declared a criminal cartel and anyone who
joins them commits an offense. Working in legislation around that,
(27:29):
would you consider that?
Speaker 4 (27:30):
Yeah, look, thank you Dean, and thanks for the shout
out for the work I did down in Tasman. And
also I must say thanks for the shout out to
my dad actually, who's probably not listening he's getting on awe,
but I know that he's made a.
Speaker 3 (27:42):
Huge contribution to So thank you. Deane.
Speaker 4 (27:46):
Well, yeah, you're talking about organized criminal groups and we
do have legislation now that is really empowering us to
deal with those. I mean, you know, if Shore, we
deal with cartels and mafia and all sorts of things,
and our international network was very hard to keep New
Zealand safe by addressing of those issues alongside other law enforcement.
(28:08):
But in terms of New Zealand and our current laws,
you know, it's a tricky one. It's probably something that
political masters may think about. But you know, since the
introduction of laws towards the end of November last year
and the work that we've done ever since, we are
really feeling very well supported and empowered to deal with
(28:29):
the problems in communities across New Zealand. So as long
as we keep doing that, you know, we I'll be
very proud of the outcomes that we are getting in
terms of safety.
Speaker 2 (28:40):
How much of a network of policing have you got
through the Pacific to try and I mean, I don't
know how you try and stop that flow of drugs
coming from South America down through the islands when there
are so many islands and the ravages that drug importation
and drug use is perpetuating in the Pacific is just terrific.
(29:00):
Are you all working together to try and at least
impede the progress of drugs?
Speaker 4 (29:04):
Yes, we are carrying. In fact, early in my time
I made a point of getting up to the Pacific
and I've met with Commissioner to Dravu and Fiji Commissioner
of Filippo Samo, most recently Commissioner Joseph and Raratonga, and
I've got more visits planned. Because the Pacific is a vulnerability,
not just the Pacific but also for New Zealand. I
(29:25):
work very closely with my Australian colleagues. Australian federal police.
I'm hosting a number of the commissioners from the Pacific
in New Zealand next week, over twenty of them, and
we will be talking through next week about what we
can do more together. I've got some ideas. I do
have some staff already based in the Pacific, but I
would like to be able to increase that, not only
(29:48):
in support of those Pacific nations, but also of course
keess to our own country.
Speaker 2 (29:53):
Coming into our ports. What's the problem with cameras? Corrections
have had them for years. Why do you not ye.
Speaker 4 (29:59):
Body worn cameras well? Look, I've been very clear that
you know that under my time as a commissioner, I
want to ensure that we do get body worn cameras.
It's something that requires a lot of thought, a lot
of investment.
Speaker 2 (30:11):
There's been a lot of thought.
Speaker 4 (30:12):
Yeah, I know, and you know, having worked off shore
last year. Most developed police nations do have cameras.
Speaker 2 (30:18):
And it keeps the police officers safe too, at a
time where you've got social media correct presenting one side
of the story.
Speaker 4 (30:24):
Absolutely it does. It helps tell a story when we
need to tell a story. So there are a number
of benefits from body worn cameras.
Speaker 3 (30:32):
We will bring the hold up.
Speaker 4 (30:34):
We've got some legislative work to work through. There's some costs,
but you know, I'm working really hard to ensure that
we provide for this initiative. I can't give you a timeframe,
but I'm determined to make it happen.
Speaker 2 (30:46):
Within your Termers Commission.
Speaker 3 (30:48):
Absolutely, yes.
Speaker 2 (30:49):
And the wearing of sight arms.
Speaker 3 (30:52):
Yes, are you supportive?
Speaker 2 (30:55):
More and more police officers are. When I first started
as a journalist, they were not like I think there
are a few outlawers who saw themselves as the sheriffs
of the wild West. Now more than half say that
they would support wearing side arms because it's a more dangerous.
Speaker 3 (31:08):
As it is.
Speaker 4 (31:09):
Definitely, policing has changed, certainly changed from when I was
on the front line many years ago. Personally, I would
love to live in a country where police staff didn't
have to carry a firearm routinely. But we have to
keep an open mind, and I said on day one
of my commissionership that I'm up for the conversation if
(31:30):
we get to a point where we need to have that.
But yes, you are right, Carrie. There has certainly been
an increase in the number of police colleagues that think
that maybe we should have that conversation. I'm open to it. Albeit,
I would love to live in a country where we
didn't have to.
Speaker 2 (31:46):
News talk, said, be that's it. They went quickly, didn't it.
Speaker 4 (31:49):
We love every moment of that carry.
Speaker 3 (31:51):
Yes, I do.
Speaker 2 (31:53):
I'm glad. We'd love to have you back on so
many lovely, lovely comments. I just want to thank you,
thank you to you and the Commissioner. Really enjoyed your
program this morning. Hopefully he will come again. Bravo, Kerry, Bravo.
Fantastic chat with Richard Chambers says Kay, that man is
gold exactly what this country needs, refreshing to hear, straight forward,
(32:17):
unwavering answers. Thank you for sharing him with us. I
think it was the police that shared him with us.
Do feel free to continue to do so regularly.
Speaker 3 (32:26):
Yep.
Speaker 2 (32:26):
They'd like you to come back on. Great to hear
such a heart warming interview. We all need that. I'll
pass this on to you. I haven't seen any negative ones.
Would you like the negative ones too?
Speaker 4 (32:37):
Yes, it's always good to know both sides.
Speaker 3 (32:39):
Yep.
Speaker 2 (32:39):
Okay, Now we always end with a song. Do you
have a song that you would like to go out on.
Speaker 4 (32:45):
Well, you know, I'm actually an Andrea Bicelli fan.
Speaker 3 (32:48):
You, Yes, I am. Yes, I think he's remarkable.
Speaker 2 (32:52):
Have you seen him live?
Speaker 4 (32:53):
Yes, I have here in Auckland.
Speaker 2 (32:55):
Actually sayce he might have had the opportunity.
Speaker 4 (32:58):
Tried to but never never lined up. But I did
see him live here in Auckland. But as the police commissioner,
and knowing that I've got seen outstanding colleagues out there
across New Zealand, I think the right song to play
at the end is he Ain't Heavy, He's my brother.
Speaker 2 (33:12):
There was a police recruiting song back in the day.
Speaker 3 (33:15):
It certainly was.
Speaker 2 (33:16):
I remember it vividly. There was the old fashioned police
uniform with the helmets. It's right, God, they must have
been irritating those.
Speaker 4 (33:23):
Well, yes, yes there's still a few of them around.
But you know, we've we've modernized a week, but haven't we.
But I think that image is one that's in benuiful
many memories. Yes, but certainly I think for given the
police and shout out to all my colleagues out there
across the country and the public for the support, I
think that would be quite a nice song to finish on.
Speaker 2 (33:43):
A lovely one is that what got you into police,
because that must have been around about the same time
as you joined the police.
Speaker 4 (33:49):
I think you might be right, carey gosh ninety six, Yes,
it maybe even before. I think as a kid growing up,
I always wanted to be a police maker.
Speaker 2 (33:57):
I remember that as well as that, the police officer
picking up the little boy.
Speaker 3 (34:01):
That's right.
Speaker 2 (34:01):
Yeah, yeah, ah, that was beautiful.
Speaker 4 (34:04):
Yes, yeah, we're shown our.
Speaker 2 (34:08):
It's a privilege. It's a privilege to be ABLD, a
privilege to have you in the studio. Thank you so much,
and thank you to all the policemen and women and
the teams who support them.
Speaker 1 (34:16):
For more from carry Wood and Mornings, listen live to
news talks it Be from nine am weekdays, or follow
the podcast on iHeartRadio
You're listening to the Kerry Wooden Mornings podcast from News Talk,
said B.
Speaker 2 (00:11):
News Talk said B. It is seven pass ten, Carrie
wood I'm with you through until midday and through until
eleven o'clock. We have Richard Chambers, our police Commissioner, joining
us in the studio. Very very good morning to you. Thanks,
very nice to have you here. You've been in the
role now for eight months.
Speaker 3 (00:33):
Gone very fast, I.
Speaker 2 (00:34):
Bet it has so. Yeah, good to catch up. We
did have your predecessor in it. I'm hoping for more
straight answers. It was very good at speaking the speak
of the bureaucrats and decision makers.
Speaker 4 (00:51):
Well, I'm a policeman and I've maintained from day one
that i never want to lose sight.
Speaker 3 (00:55):
Of how important that is.
Speaker 4 (00:56):
Yeah, especially when I lead such a big team of
amazing people. You know, I've been with some of them
this morning actually here in Auckland, and love talking police things, challenges,
opportunities and at the end of the day, my placement.
Speaker 3 (01:09):
I'll always do my best.
Speaker 2 (01:10):
Yeah, we'll see it already already A good answer. Oh,
eight hundred eighty ten eighty is the number to call
if you have a question for our police commissioner. He's
got a message for you, a safety message before we start.
Speaker 4 (01:25):
Yes, Kerry, look, my first message is where sunscreen? And
today I'm here and I know the cameras are rolling.
You know, it looks like I have something Bad's happened
to me actually, but in fact this is the consequence
of running around as a kid in New Zealand without
wearing sunscreen. And so my wife just said to me, Richard,
you need to go and sort that out. So I'm
(01:45):
just working my way through getting the treatment for my
skin so it doesn't develop into anything worse. But that's
my message to everyone out there, especially the young kids.
Wear sunscreen.
Speaker 2 (01:56):
As the song said back in the nineties. Nothing cancerous though, or.
Speaker 4 (02:00):
No no good to be ahead of these things though.
Speaker 2 (02:02):
Yeah, absolutely absolutely. Now let's start with some good news
to Auckland's Police College. How is that going.
Speaker 4 (02:10):
That's going exceptionally well. We've got forty graduate sorry recruits
there graduating in a few months time. I was very
proud to be there on their first day talking to them,
and the feedback that I'm getting from them is it's
going exceptionally well. So what we're doing now is actually
looking at the second Auckland wing and I'm really hoping
(02:32):
that that will be underway very early in the new year.
Speaker 2 (02:35):
And the rationale behind an Auckland college.
Speaker 4 (02:38):
Will there's cap Yeah, there's been people who, for whatever
family personal reason, have struggled with twenty weeks down in Pottydoer.
So this is about an opportunity for those that have
always aspired to be a member of New Zealand Police
and by giving them the opportunity to train here in
Auckland and go home at the end of the day children,
(03:01):
whatever their family situations, well, why wouldn't we give them
that opportunity? And I asked them the question on day one,
how many are you here? Because how many of you
are here because we've given you the opportunity to train
here in Auckland. Most of them put their hand up,
So that said to me that what a wonderful opportunity
we can give them. And that's why we're going to
work on a second wing.
Speaker 3 (03:23):
Early in the new year.
Speaker 4 (03:24):
And you know, many of those forty are from Tamaki Miikodo,
but we have eight here.
Speaker 3 (03:29):
Also from Northland.
Speaker 4 (03:31):
It also makes it easier for them to go home
in the weekend because it's a bit closer.
Speaker 2 (03:35):
One for the South Island or is the demand not there.
Speaker 4 (03:39):
At the moment? Our focus is certainly the North Island. Yes,
we are recruiting in the South Island as well, but
right now the need is greater in the North Island.
Speaker 2 (03:47):
And who's applying to become a police officer? Because God
knows it's a calling, not a You don't do it
for the money.
Speaker 4 (03:55):
Well, it's a fantastic job and I'm as passionate thirty
years on from when I started back in ninety six.
You know same, I feel the same as I did
back then. I love this job. It is an exceptional career,
so many different opportunities. And people say, well, why would
you want to work for one organization for so long?
And I say, well, actually, I've done so many different jobs.
(04:16):
It doesn't feel like I've worked for one organization. But
fifteen thousand colleagues around the country do incredible work day
and night, and it is an amazing career with so
many different, exciting opportunities. The variety that you get in
policing is broad and challenging, no doubt, But you know,
the camaraderie that we have helping people in their moment
(04:41):
of most need. It's a very meaningful career and that
is why, in fact, right now we've got we are
receiving more applications monthly than we ever have, and we're
putting a lot of effort into our recruiting obviously around
the country. You know, things like ride along and other
(05:03):
things are getting huge pickup. There's so many good people
out there who want to join you zill On Police.
Because I've so, I've got my team working as fast
as we can to recruit.
Speaker 2 (05:14):
And you're not lowering any of the standards. Remember there
was a bit of who about the ability to swim
and correct that.
Speaker 4 (05:19):
Yeah, No, I've been very clear as Commissioner that standards
and expectations matter. And you know, there may be some
who need to do a little bit extra work on
something if they want to join New zeal On Police,
but I maintain that they will put that extra bitter
effort in if they really want to join you zill
On Police.
Speaker 2 (05:39):
So you tell them where perhaps their application might be lacking,
give them points about what they can do to bring
themselves up to an acceptable level.
Speaker 3 (05:47):
Yes, we do.
Speaker 4 (05:48):
We do have various things underway around the country to
support people in there, you know, the aspiration to join
your zeal On police or whatever that may be.
Speaker 2 (05:56):
All right, we'll go to a caller first. I have questions,
but you know I did throw open the invitation. So
Kiri your first cab off the rank.
Speaker 5 (06:05):
Yes, good morning. Very frustrating to see that the police
turn their turn the blind eye on people driving and
riding like idiots on their roads. We're pulling well stands.
Bikes aren't registered, bikes aren't warranted. Cars that aren't registered,
(06:25):
cars are unwarranted. I saw a car on the road
the other day twenty eighteen, and they had kids in it.
And yet you guys will pull over a guy going
for a red light, a guy not wearing a seat belt,
and you tend to just turn the blind eye on
these and people are getting really peas.
Speaker 4 (06:47):
Off of it.
Speaker 5 (06:49):
What's what's going to happen? I mean, I mean on
on the road all day and I have nearly hit
two or three of them. I know for a fact
that they'll get all the inmates to come back and
beat me up because it's my fault.
Speaker 4 (07:03):
Kerry, look good question. I have a large part of
my organization out there policing our roads. Sadly, New Zealand
still has far too many people dying and being harmed
on our roads, and I know that my staff are
very committed to policing roads. Yes, we're not always going
(07:25):
to be able to deal with every situation, but I
concur with exactly what you said. Yesterday, I drove from
Wellington to Auckland. I could easily fly, but I like
to drive because I can visit my staff along the
way and observe behaviors on the roads myself. And when
I drive a police car, as I said at the
beginning of this session with Kerry, I'm still a policeman
(07:48):
and so there's no reason why I can't help enforce
the law because I don't want anybody being harmed on
the roads or worse. So there may be times when
you're frustrated, and I'm sure you're not alone. I'm certainly
with you when I'm not working, if you like, and
driving around of my own car, and I see behaviors
(08:08):
that disappoint me as well. But we do do a
remarkable job. We are working really, really hard, and anybody
who's experienced trauma on New Zealand roads know while we'll
continue to work for your heart.
Speaker 2 (08:21):
The road checks, you know, the licensed checks and the
breath checks and things. How many actual crims do they
pull up? How many people do you get who are
breaking the law or who you know might you might
think there's a rifle in the back of this car
and that shouldn't be there.
Speaker 3 (08:38):
Yeah, actually, very good question, Kerry. Look.
Speaker 4 (08:40):
I from time to time, of course, when something presents
before my frontline staff, they need grounds to have a
closer look. That could be the smell of drugs, It
could be that they've seen something in the car as
some sort of a weapon. Of course, one of the
things I'm most proud about policicing is that our police
officers up and down the country often know their local people,
(09:01):
and sometimes if somebody's known to us to be wanted,
then we can have a chat on them as well.
So it's very hard to put statistics behind your question.
But I know that having participated in things like checkpoints
myself over the years, that you know, you may certainly
be there to help police the roads, but inevitably other
things present, and my staff are good dealing with those
(09:24):
as well.
Speaker 2 (09:25):
We are with our Police Commissioner, Richard Chambers, who's taking
your calls like this one from Sharma good morning to
you Sharma, good morning.
Speaker 6 (09:35):
And I just wanted to ask Commissioner Richard, is a
clarity more than a question. Some of us are over sixty,
but not two over sixty, but physically pretty fit and
still doing the normal things done policing in Alcaha in
countries we migrated from, is there a limitations restrictions that
(09:59):
the police recruitment system have in terms of getting people
like you know, we want to contribute back in some
form in a way and we are not really employment
and hungry, but more or less trying to give back
to the community.
Speaker 3 (10:18):
Very good question, Charma.
Speaker 4 (10:19):
Look through my career in policing, I've seen many join
New Zealand Police in a constabulary way who are in
their fifties. And you know, whatever age you are, you've
still got the same standards and expectations to meet physically
in what have you. But what I probably suggest is
that you don't always have to make a meaningful contribution
(10:42):
to policing just by being constabulary, because we have many jobs.
In fact, five thousand staff in my workforce are civilian
and make just as important contribution to policing in whatever
their roles are. And I think about my staff that
work in the communications centers and a lot of what
(11:02):
we do in terms of interactions with the public. In fact,
seventy three percent of what we do interacting with the
public comes from my non constaborary staff. So so many
different opportunities in policing. If you're very, very keen, you've
just got to keep your eye out for those opportunities.
The sixty you shouldn't get in the way.
Speaker 2 (11:23):
So if you are really really good with computers and
say sixty years old, would you be able to help
out with the white collar crime investigations. Yes, without having
to do the drag the body and the climb over
the wall.
Speaker 4 (11:37):
Absolutely, Kerry. In fact, over the recent few years, my
workforce has expanded because we've needed specialists and you know,
people have skills and knowledge and experience that is fantastic
to us in policing to investigate crime and hold people
to account. That's law enforcement that's developing globally in terms
(11:57):
of realizing that actually those that help us get outcomes
for the communities and individuals aren't always going to be constableary.
Speaker 2 (12:04):
Okay, cool. We have Police Commissioner Richard chambers here taking
your calls couple from the text machine, muzz says, what's
the commissioner's view on citizens arrest? Can I physically stop
someone if they're walking out with a trolley full of
groceries at New World?
Speaker 4 (12:19):
Well, mus safety always comes first, reality is you know,
as we go about our private lives, we see things unfolding.
That is my messages. Just remember the safety of yourself
and others and whatever you might choose to intervene in. Sadly,
and we see it in policing. Sometimes these situations can
(12:40):
result in tragedies and I don't want anybody getting hurt,
but it does happen, So we need to think very
carefully about what intervention means of the public make.
Speaker 2 (12:48):
What's the stance from the police though, Will they prosecute
to try and deter others from making a citizens arrest?
Speaker 4 (12:55):
Well, that's a trick. That's a tricky one, Carrie. No,
as the answer is that, I mean, I can't think
actually of any situations now where we've prosecuted someone because
they've intervened. But obviously when it comes to the use
of force, yes, of course that is a consideration. And
if someone alects to an intervene in a certain situation
and they use force that is not proportionate to the situation,
(13:17):
then that becomes a matter for the police to investigate. So,
you know, we need to be very careful about the
decision making when it comes to these things happening in
the community because they might have other outcomes.
Speaker 2 (13:31):
Michelle asks, mine's more a statement, but how do you
keep up the morale of police who do great investigative
work and bring low lives to court such as the
privileged drug dealer discussed yesterday, only to have the courts
give them home detention. It's absolutely infuriating for members of
the public. I can't imagine what it's like for police.
Speaker 4 (13:51):
Yes, look, I've been a detective in my career as well,
and I've presented cases before the court and you know,
sometimes the outcome hasn't sort of met my own expectations personally,
and I've felt a bit let downarticular when victims are involved.
But the reality is it's not our job to form
a view on that. Our job is to put the
(14:11):
facts before the court, the evidence before the court, and
let the processes take their course. But at the end
of the day, you know, place people are human beings too,
and sometimes outcomes aren't quite what we'd like them to be.
Speaker 2 (14:23):
It was more of a politician's answer than a policeman's answer.
Speaker 4 (14:26):
Well, I have to be careful obviously commenting on decisions
that are not for me to compact on.
Speaker 2 (14:33):
But it does impact on the force because or the service,
the police service. I think it's still called, isn't it,
rather than police force?
Speaker 3 (14:39):
Yes?
Speaker 2 (14:40):
Well, yes, anyway, anyway, it does impact on the men
and women who work in your teams because if they
think that their job is utterly futile, they're doing their
bit to try and keep society and the community safe.
Speaker 3 (14:51):
Yes.
Speaker 2 (14:52):
Agree, So if it impacts on them, then you have
an issue. Can you make and your role as commissioner
make submissions to the Justice Minister, to the courts.
Speaker 3 (15:04):
Yeah.
Speaker 4 (15:04):
In fact, I will tell you now that I had
conversations with two detectives yesterday from one certain part of
New Zealand. They were quite frustrated actually with some outcomes
in relation to matters they'd been working very very hard on.
I gave them the reassurance that I would present their
concerns to my peers in the justice sector, and in
(15:26):
fact I'm meeting with them this afternoon. So my job
is to put our concerns forward and see where that goes.
And you know, if there's an agreement across the sector
that there's something we need to do in one of
those has been the timeliness actually of the justice system,
then we'll do something about that. And that's in part.
Timeliness is one of those issues that we're addressing.
Speaker 2 (15:46):
All right, are you making any inroads when it comes
to the gangs, because you're recruiting so as the gangs.
Speaker 4 (15:53):
Absolutely, I'm very, very proud of my staff across the
country who have embraced the new legislation the wearing of
gang insignia. And I'm not sure how many it is now,
but I think it may be over seven hundred prosecutions
for the wearing insignia. That has helped us to address
the gang issues. And in fact, whilst the gang insignia
(16:14):
is one aspect, the reality is that gangs are responsible
for a very high and disproportionate number of other serious
criminal offending. So we're addressing that too, and we have
thousands of additional charges that have been presented to the
court because as we go about our police work. We
(16:34):
may well be policing things like patches, then we inevitably
are dealing with other things as well, and I look
at that. So I know that there's been a lot
of commentary about gang numbers and stuff like that, but
the reality is my team, teams across the country are
focused on holding gang members to account, and I'm very
very proud of their hard work. And I think we
would all agree that that legislation has definitely gone extremely
(16:59):
well and the compliance level is something that I'm very
very pleased with.
Speaker 2 (17:03):
And my own neighborhood, I used to get so brass
off with them swaggering with the shiny bikes and it
was basically recruiting on the corner where the cafe was.
They'd park up the Harley's and the leathers were immaculate.
If only they could keep their homes as clean as
they keep their bikes, and it just it used to
make me feel like I was having my nose rubbed
(17:25):
in their dirty business.
Speaker 4 (17:27):
Yeah, And you know, one of the things about policing
is that, yes, we work incredibly hard to keep people safe,
but it's also about the feelings of safety, and when
you see an absence of gang members walking down the
road wearing their paraphernalia.
Speaker 3 (17:40):
Then that is helpful for us. All.
Speaker 2 (17:42):
Let's get the elephant in the room out of the way.
Jevin mcskimming, that's disappointing in the extreme, Yes.
Speaker 3 (17:49):
Carry it is. Obviously.
Speaker 4 (17:51):
I can't really have say much it's before the court
right now. But look, I shared a message with all
my staff across the country when things were playing out
in the media, and I expressed my anger and my
disappointment and how let down I felt. And I wanted
to share those feelings with my staff because I know
(18:13):
that's how they feel. But I will say obviously that
you know, police people are not above the law, and frankly,
rank doesn't matter.
Speaker 3 (18:24):
We're all.
Speaker 4 (18:27):
Accountable for the same things as a member of the
public are. So you know, that's as far as I
can say. But I feel for my frontline staff in
particularly out there doing an amazing job day and night,
because when these things do play out, it is them
that often feel the heat from and quite unfairly frankly,
So you know, men and women of my organization do
(18:48):
a remarkable job and it's not a helpful, but it's
the actions of an individual.
Speaker 3 (18:53):
It's before the.
Speaker 2 (18:54):
Court because so much work has been done, hasn't there
on the culture of the police after the Yeah, I'm
trying to think of a polite way of saying it,
but you know, after the horror of the rape boisy culture,
and so much work has been done, Yes it has.
And half of those police officers now wouldn't have been
(19:15):
alive or wouldn't have been at school when that was happening.
And then along comes another bad apple that taints the
whole crop.
Speaker 4 (19:23):
Our reputation is critically important for trust and confidence internally externally,
and we have so much to be proud of. And
when things happen, you know, colleagues, whoever they are, whatever
they've done, if they let us down, they let us
all down.
Speaker 3 (19:38):
And you know, I.
Speaker 4 (19:40):
Had the privilege last year of living in France and
working overseas and working with law enforcement, and throughout that
experience I was constantly reminded of just how lucky we
are in New Zealand to have the support of the public,
the support of each other doing a very very hard job.
So when these things emerge in the way that this
(20:02):
recent experience has, you know that that impacts on all
of us. And I really feel for my team's out there, Dorothy.
Speaker 2 (20:08):
Very good morning to.
Speaker 7 (20:09):
You, Lorena Morena, Oh, I just wanted to pass on praise.
My son has just qualified and was in the last
recruits that the wing has just qualified in July and
pore amazing support, fantastic orientation and the welcome he's had
within the police forces being absolutely amazing.
Speaker 4 (20:32):
Oh, thank you Dorothy. That's fantastic to hear, you know.
And can I say thank you to you because you know,
families are critically important for my staff across the country
and we do do a tough job. Mum's dads, brothers, sisters,
sons and daughters are all part of us being our
absolute very best in policing. So thanks to your support
(20:53):
for your to your son and other for other members
of the family. He's got a tough job, but knowing yeah,
yeah he has, and knowing that he's got your support,
family support and also the police family, you know that
matters and I thank you, Thank you to.
Speaker 3 (21:06):
You, Dorothy.
Speaker 7 (21:07):
Yeah, a lot of problems, so thank you to you
and your staff is that's nothing but praise.
Speaker 3 (21:13):
Thanks very much.
Speaker 2 (21:14):
Fantastic And another one, Lisa says compliments for the outstanding
community policing that's happening in Westport Sergeant Georgie, where is
a gem is Lisa?
Speaker 3 (21:24):
Yep? Well, Lisa's right.
Speaker 4 (21:26):
I've had the privilege of working with Georgie in the
West Coast when I was the district commander for Tasman
and I've seen Georgie at work and she's fantastic for
the teams that she leads, but she's fantastic for the
Westport community as well, So big shout out. I completely
agree with that comment about her. She's a great leader.
Speaker 2 (21:44):
What happens to the rural policing in like culvidon places
like that? How do you make the decision to close
those police stations?
Speaker 3 (21:52):
Well, the good question, Kerrie.
Speaker 4 (21:54):
Yes, there's a proposal out and I'm really hoping that
we get lots of submissions from the community down there
in across Canterbury because it's those submissis that will be
taken into account to help decide if anything happens.
Speaker 2 (22:11):
So why was it raised in the first instance, Because
it causes a lot of unrest, especially when farmers at
the farming community are isolated and they are also targeted
by low lives.
Speaker 4 (22:22):
Yes, look, and I appreciate that it has caused some concern,
but all I can do is encourage people to make
his submission. There's been no decisions made. It's important that
we continually look at how we police and where we.
Speaker 3 (22:36):
Are and what have you.
Speaker 4 (22:37):
But no community should be feeling lot they're not cared
for by police because we do. We want to be
our best for everybody. So I encourage submissions from you
and they will come in and decisions will be made.
And I have met with the district commander at Tony
Hill just the other day and will happily support him
(22:57):
in making the right decisions for communities as well as.
Speaker 2 (23:01):
So the decision hasn't been made to close it.
Speaker 4 (23:03):
No decisions haven't been made yet. No, the phase where
now is just a proposal where we invite submissions, and
you know, I'll learn the fact that, yes, the proposal
should have been released to the community much sooner than
it was. We'll learn from that and be better for
it if we encounter something similar in the future. But
(23:24):
it should have gone out to communities a lot sooner,
and I think they could have understood that what we're
trying to do here is a consult with both internally
and externally and then decisions will be made. So no
decisions have been made at this point.
Speaker 2 (23:36):
I've had a couple of texts from people who've had
run ins with the police when they were young driving
charges minor offenses, but they were convicted. Now they've grown
up as we do, and they'd like to join the police,
but they can't.
Speaker 4 (23:50):
Case by case bas is carrying. That's the reality. Yes,
we need to look at that.
Speaker 3 (23:54):
We need to.
Speaker 4 (23:55):
You know, we do a lot of work to help
understand those that are keen to join the police and
the decisions to allow them to join or not. I
can't comment on individual experiences.
Speaker 2 (24:09):
Do you have sworn staff who might have had a
drink drive conviction in their youth.
Speaker 4 (24:14):
Yes, we have indeed got police people out there who have,
for whatever indiscretion minor join New Zealand Police because we've
got to take a common sense approach to those that
we allow to join.
Speaker 7 (24:27):
You.
Speaker 4 (24:28):
Yes, many of these are a long time ago and
we take that into account. You know, a lot happens
from the youth to where they are as adults, and
so we're not saying no across the board, but we
do need to look closely to make sure that doesn't
impact on their ability to be a good police officer.
Speaker 2 (24:48):
Really nice comments. We even't had to hide the text
machine from the commissioner's people at all, which we sometimes
have to do with politicians. I think it's been a
great deal of I mean, there's always been I think
a faith and trust in our police Tamatha Paul notwithstanding,
you know, I know that there are some people who
perhaps have had bad experiences with police, But there's always
(25:12):
been a faith in our police, I think. But it's
been emboldened. Perhaps people feel more secure and expressing their
support for the police now.
Speaker 4 (25:26):
Yes, and I'm incredibly grateful for that support because it
does matter. And my colleagues across the country, you know,
they've got a tough job to quirie and when we
know that we've got the public out there encouraging us. Hey, look,
I've always said we're not always going to get it right.
(25:46):
You know, we're not perfect, but we do our absolute
best and the support matters. And I'm very grateful and
I know that they are too.
Speaker 2 (25:54):
Everyone's got their favorite officer. Just a quick note to
say thank you for the work you and your team
do across altet or special shout out to Detective Matt
Bull and the sergeant absolute legends their dedication and mutty
don't go on just in and now small community.
Speaker 3 (26:09):
Very nice.
Speaker 4 (26:10):
Thank you is actually had in Pokku not that long ago,
speaking with colleagues there and yeah they don't exceptional job actually,
so thanks to Matt and the same Dan.
Speaker 2 (26:19):
Good morning to you.
Speaker 8 (26:21):
Good morning their commission, and good morning Cairiy. Just saying
you're definitely the right men from the job. I knew
your reputation when you were Tessma. I'd retired before you
joined the job, but I knew your reputation there, had
a lot of cases with your dad in the Supreme Court,
the serious cases, and I believe you're the right men
(26:43):
to the job. But that political question that Cherry mentioned
a little while ago, You've got nine years of the
previous government changed foundational values and it seeped into the
police to overcome there where you are at the present time,
I don't know how you're getting on there, But the
question I wanted to ask you, sir. The patches to
stop visible gang members, which definitely help the public from
(27:07):
an intimidation point of view, but there's something deeper needed
to stop the numbers going, and I was suggesting perhaps
the gangs, the serious ones, the Monkeys and the Black Power,
these ones being declared a criminal cartel and anyone who
joins them commits an offense. Working in legislation around that,
(27:29):
would you consider that?
Speaker 4 (27:30):
Yeah, look, thank you Dean, and thanks for the shout
out for the work I did down in Tasman. And
also I must say thanks for the shout out to
my dad actually, who's probably not listening he's getting on awe,
but I know that he's made a.
Speaker 3 (27:42):
Huge contribution to So thank you. Deane.
Speaker 4 (27:46):
Well, yeah, you're talking about organized criminal groups and we
do have legislation now that is really empowering us to
deal with those. I mean, you know, if Shore, we
deal with cartels and mafia and all sorts of things,
and our international network was very hard to keep New
Zealand safe by addressing of those issues alongside other law enforcement.
(28:08):
But in terms of New Zealand and our current laws,
you know, it's a tricky one. It's probably something that
political masters may think about. But you know, since the
introduction of laws towards the end of November last year
and the work that we've done ever since, we are
really feeling very well supported and empowered to deal with
(28:29):
the problems in communities across New Zealand. So as long
as we keep doing that, you know, we I'll be
very proud of the outcomes that we are getting in
terms of safety.
Speaker 2 (28:40):
How much of a network of policing have you got
through the Pacific to try and I mean, I don't
know how you try and stop that flow of drugs
coming from South America down through the islands when there
are so many islands and the ravages that drug importation
and drug use is perpetuating in the Pacific is just terrific.
(29:00):
Are you all working together to try and at least
impede the progress of drugs?
Speaker 4 (29:04):
Yes, we are carrying. In fact, early in my time
I made a point of getting up to the Pacific
and I've met with Commissioner to Dravu and Fiji Commissioner
of Filippo Samo, most recently Commissioner Joseph and Raratonga, and
I've got more visits planned. Because the Pacific is a vulnerability,
not just the Pacific but also for New Zealand. I
(29:25):
work very closely with my Australian colleagues. Australian federal police.
I'm hosting a number of the commissioners from the Pacific
in New Zealand next week, over twenty of them, and
we will be talking through next week about what we
can do more together. I've got some ideas. I do
have some staff already based in the Pacific, but I
would like to be able to increase that, not only
(29:48):
in support of those Pacific nations, but also of course
keess to our own country.
Speaker 2 (29:53):
Coming into our ports. What's the problem with cameras? Corrections
have had them for years. Why do you not ye.
Speaker 4 (29:59):
Body worn cameras well? Look, I've been very clear that
you know that under my time as a commissioner, I
want to ensure that we do get body worn cameras.
It's something that requires a lot of thought, a lot
of investment.
Speaker 2 (30:11):
There's been a lot of thought.
Speaker 4 (30:12):
Yeah, I know, and you know, having worked off shore
last year. Most developed police nations do have cameras.
Speaker 2 (30:18):
And it keeps the police officers safe too, at a
time where you've got social media correct presenting one side
of the story.
Speaker 4 (30:24):
Absolutely it does. It helps tell a story when we
need to tell a story. So there are a number
of benefits from body worn cameras.
Speaker 3 (30:32):
We will bring the hold up.
Speaker 4 (30:34):
We've got some legislative work to work through. There's some costs,
but you know, I'm working really hard to ensure that
we provide for this initiative. I can't give you a timeframe,
but I'm determined to make it happen.
Speaker 2 (30:46):
Within your Termers Commission.
Speaker 3 (30:48):
Absolutely, yes.
Speaker 2 (30:49):
And the wearing of sight arms.
Speaker 3 (30:52):
Yes, are you supportive?
Speaker 2 (30:55):
More and more police officers are. When I first started
as a journalist, they were not like I think there
are a few outlawers who saw themselves as the sheriffs
of the wild West. Now more than half say that
they would support wearing side arms because it's a more dangerous.
Speaker 3 (31:08):
As it is.
Speaker 4 (31:09):
Definitely, policing has changed, certainly changed from when I was
on the front line many years ago. Personally, I would
love to live in a country where police staff didn't
have to carry a firearm routinely. But we have to
keep an open mind, and I said on day one
of my commissionership that I'm up for the conversation if
(31:30):
we get to a point where we need to have that.
But yes, you are right, Carrie. There has certainly been
an increase in the number of police colleagues that think
that maybe we should have that conversation. I'm open to it. Albeit,
I would love to live in a country where we
didn't have to.
Speaker 2 (31:46):
News talk, said, be that's it. They went quickly, didn't it.
Speaker 4 (31:49):
We love every moment of that carry.
Speaker 3 (31:51):
Yes, I do.
Speaker 2 (31:53):
I'm glad. We'd love to have you back on so
many lovely, lovely comments. I just want to thank you,
thank you to you and the Commissioner. Really enjoyed your
program this morning. Hopefully he will come again. Bravo, Kerry, Bravo.
Fantastic chat with Richard Chambers says Kay, that man is
gold exactly what this country needs, refreshing to hear, straight forward,
(32:17):
unwavering answers. Thank you for sharing him with us. I
think it was the police that shared him with us.
Do feel free to continue to do so regularly.
Speaker 3 (32:26):
Yep.
Speaker 2 (32:26):
They'd like you to come back on. Great to hear
such a heart warming interview. We all need that. I'll
pass this on to you. I haven't seen any negative ones.
Would you like the negative ones too?
Speaker 4 (32:37):
Yes, it's always good to know both sides.
Speaker 3 (32:39):
Yep.
Speaker 2 (32:39):
Okay, Now we always end with a song. Do you
have a song that you would like to go out on.
Speaker 4 (32:45):
Well, you know, I'm actually an Andrea Bicelli fan.
Speaker 3 (32:48):
You, Yes, I am. Yes, I think he's remarkable.
Speaker 2 (32:52):
Have you seen him live?
Speaker 4 (32:53):
Yes, I have here in Auckland.
Speaker 2 (32:55):
Actually sayce he might have had the opportunity.
Speaker 4 (32:58):
Tried to but never never lined up. But I did
see him live here in Auckland. But as the police commissioner,
and knowing that I've got seen outstanding colleagues out there
across New Zealand, I think the right song to play
at the end is he Ain't Heavy, He's my brother.
Speaker 2 (33:12):
There was a police recruiting song back in the day.
Speaker 3 (33:15):
It certainly was.
Speaker 2 (33:16):
I remember it vividly. There was the old fashioned police
uniform with the helmets. It's right, God, they must have
been irritating those.
Speaker 4 (33:23):
Well, yes, yes there's still a few of them around.
But you know, we've we've modernized a week, but haven't we.
But I think that image is one that's in benuiful
many memories. Yes, but certainly I think for given the
police and shout out to all my colleagues out there
across the country and the public for the support, I
think that would be quite a nice song to finish on.
Speaker 2 (33:43):
A lovely one is that what got you into police,
because that must have been around about the same time
as you joined the police.
Speaker 4 (33:49):
I think you might be right, carey gosh ninety six, Yes,
it maybe even before. I think as a kid growing up,
I always wanted to be a police maker.
Speaker 2 (33:57):
I remember that as well as that, the police officer
picking up the little boy.
Speaker 3 (34:01):
That's right.
Speaker 2 (34:01):
Yeah, yeah, ah, that was beautiful.
Speaker 4 (34:04):
Yes, yeah, we're shown our.
Speaker 2 (34:08):
It's a privilege. It's a privilege to be ABLD, a
privilege to have you in the studio. Thank you so much,
and thank you to all the policemen and women and
the teams who support them.
Speaker 1 (34:16):
For more from carry Wood and Mornings, listen live to
news talks it Be from nine am weekdays, or follow
the podcast on iHeartRadio
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