Women in police take a bow
Retired, current and recentlysworn female police in Palmerston North hosted half of a torch on Saturday, celebrating 75 years since the first woman joined the New Zealand Police.
The half-torch arrived from Woodville at midday, and was handed to Inspector Sarah Stewart for a whistle-stop visit.
Accompanying the torch, leader for the Central District’s 75-year celebrations Jeanette Park said it was important to pause and recognise the milestone.
While still outnumbered by men, she said women in the police had come a long way.
‘‘The significance for me is about the people who joined originally and have paved the way for us.
‘‘I’m very proud of the women who have gone before us.’’
The Central Police District was an example of how far women had progressed in the service.
The district commander role is held by Superintendent Sue Schwalger, and Manawatu area commander is Inspector Sarah Stewart.
Two of Palmerston North’s retired police women joined the uniformed staff while the torch was in Palmerston North.
They were Karen Shannon, and Sue Stewart, who is now a land agent.
Stewart rose to the rank of detective sergeant, her career stretching from 1975 to October 1999.
Park’s own career has been just a little longer, with 25 years’ service behind her.
‘‘It’s a fantastic choice for young women. There are tremendous opportunities and I enjoy every minute of it.’’
After its visit to Palmerston North, the torch relay continued to Feilding and Whanganui.
It was to spend most of Sunday in Whanganui, where it would be carried by waka and on horseback, before continuing to Tongariro to be handed on to Taranaki staff.
Acting district commander Detective Inspector Keith Borrell said the 75th anniversary celebrations were a great opportunity for local communities to celebrate with the police.
‘‘Our female staff have faced a number of significant challenges in the last 75 years and these celebrations are a reminder to us all of the sacrifices that have been made and of how far we have come.’’
On Tuesday, the torch returns to Palmerston North where there will be a wine and cheese function at the Manawatu Golf Club.
The function will include a fashion parade of seven former women’s uniforms and a display of photographs and memorabilia.
Park said any retired police women who had not already booked in for the function were welcome to attend.
The North Island and South Island halves of the commemorative torch will converge in Wellington on August 1.