IPA open to police officers and staff
Police officers, past or present, and non sworn members of the police, as well as men and women who have served in other police forces around the world and members of the Defence Force military police are all invited to join the International Police Association (IPA).
Bob Walker of Whanagnui is the chairman of region three of the New Zealand section of the IPA, which includes Stratford in its area.
He says he has been an IPA member for more than 50 years and recommends it to all.
Bob says membership brings many benefits, saying he was on a recent trip to Europe and showed his NZ IPA membership card when he wanted to take pictures of police cars, boats and buildings.
While visiting a remote castle in Hungary he says he was shoulder tapped by two individuals who were members of their own IPA sections when they saw him wearing a German IPA cap he had been gifted during a previous European holiday.
As well as being a regional chairman, Bob is an associate travel secretary for German, Austria and Eastern Europe and as such has hosted visitors from those countries.
“You certainly build up lasting relationships. I have a lovely German couple returning for their third trip to New Zealand soon. Last time they were here the woman broke her ankle while tramping in the Tararua Ranges so they are returning to finish their tour now.”
Bob says members get a lot from their membership, including the opportunity to attend world seminars and professional police exchange programmes, as well as being able to access accommodation in 70 IPA houses around the world.
The IPA also holds international youth gatherings for children of IPA members.
■ Current serving members of the police, and those who have retired or resigned in New Zealand or overseas as well as members of the military police can visit www.ipa.org.nz for more information.