Have a coffee with the police

A Waikato region-wide police initiative that encourages the community to engage with its police force will soon be launched in Matamata.

Coffee with a Cop will be in Matamata on August 16 at the Dew Drop Inn on Hetana St.

Matamata-Piako Police prevention sergeant Vic Sneddon says the initiative is a way for the community to sit down with the police in an informal and relaxed environment and share their views or concerns.

There are no appointment times, people are welcome to just arrive at the cafe and sit down with the prevention team including Sneddon, Matamata police sergeant Blair Hayde and Matamata police prevention officer Bruce Warrender.

There is no pre-set agenda, subject of discussions are determined by what the public wants to discuss.

Sneddon says it was launched recently in Morrinsville and Cambridge, and was a great success.

Over 70 people from the community attended from within each town.

‘‘It was really well attended. We just mingled and had a chat,’’ he said.

He is hopeful Matamata will be equally as successful and people will take the opportunity to meet and greet with the police.

He says the cafe is warm and inviting, and has a cool vibe to it, with its Hobbiton theme.

There are even blankets available for people to cozy under while they have their coffee.

Coffee with a Cop: Dew Drop Inn, Hetana Street, August 16, 10.30-11.30am.