Record Number of Pasifika People Join NZ Police

Arecord number of Pasifika Police trainees have been recruited into the New Zealand Police.

Deputy Commissioner Wally Haumaha said a recent recruitment campaign aimed at diversifying the force was responsible for the uptick in numbers.

The so-called ‘world’s most entertaining recruitment video’ went viral late last year and was watched by tens of millions worldwide. The 18 Porirua Police College graduates from various Pacific cultures tripled the previous record, said Mr Haumaha, who is responsible for Maori and Pasifika representation in the force.

There were also ambitious plans to raise Pasifika representation beyond the current 4.9 per cent, he said. “At the moment to 2025, we’re trying to lift the numbers up. So we would like to reach about seven per cent at that time,” said Mr Haumaha.

“Currently the Pacific staff sit around 628 in the organisation.”

The highest ranking Pasifika officer currently in New Zealand is the district commander for Palmerston North, Sue Schwalger, Mr Haumaha said.