NZ Police
11 Wednesday June 2008
 | There was an air of eager anticipation as everyone arrived at the Invercargill Police Station and was shown up to the Staff Canteen. After a brief time of networking, drinks and nibbles, Inspector Tony O’Neill, Area Commander Southland outlined the format of the evening and presented a brief overview of the Southern area. |
Constable Mike Calvert, spoke about dog handling and showed a brief video of the history. Police dogs play a vital role, and a dog handler holds a privileged position being able to work with these wonderful creatures.
 | Sergeant John Harris outlined the origins and the rigorous procedure required to join and remain in the Armed Defenders Squad. Sergeant Paul Croswell modeled the hugely complex array of equipment required for them to wear and to carry out their duties. How many of us could carry an extra 30kg of equipment let alone be able to run with it!!
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Sergeant Brock Davis spoke on the Community Policing Services and how, with the addition of extra staff they are moving back to having a more physical focus around the city.
The friendly rivalry shown in the verbal interchanges between the groups showed the need for a strong sense of humour in a profession where the unknown situation is the norm. |  |
Splitting into groups we were shown around the Station – from arrival in the paddy wagon through the processing centre to the holding cells; the fingerprinting machine – the old ink pad has been superseded by modern technology; the watchhouse, and the inner city cameras in operation. Needless to say, the tour guides were bombarded with questions and humour was paramount, particularly when it came to those attendees who were breathalysed or fingerprinted.
For a bunch of law abiders, much of the evening provided a chilling awareness of another side of life that most of us aren’t involved with and have difficulty comprehending. It was a strong reminder that life for many is viewed from a different perspective, and doesn’t always run smoothly, whether by accident or design.
If we had been wearing hats, I am sure that they would have all been doffed as a mark of respect for all those involved in keeping our streets as safe as they can, for their bravery in entering situations that at times are downright dangerous, and for their willingness to enter this type of career.
The evening provided a hugely insightful view of the role of our ‘Men in Blue’. Sincere thanks are extended to everyone at the Police Station who gave up their time to make us more aware of their vital role in our Society.
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