Visitors to the Rotorua Agricultural & Pastoral Summer Show this weekend will be able to see what happens when they call 111.
A police display from the Northern Communications Centre will replicate the process of a 111 call, enabling visitors to see technology in action via the dual computer screens used in the three Communication Centres.
Inspector Scott Webb says the display really gives an insight into what actually happens when you call an emergency service.
"By simply typing in an address the computer system pulls up detailed onscreen maps pinpointing the location of the emergency. Call takers and Dispatchers are able to drill down to a number of layers within the map including aerial photographs, common place names and other overlays."
At the show, these images are projected onto big screens so people don't need to crowd round the computers.
"In previous shows people have been amazed how quickly the system pulls up their address, irrespective of how isolated or rural the location may be.
"Our presence at events like the Rotorua show is part of an ongoing effort to give the public a chance to see for themselves what we do and how we do it, while at the same time addressing some of the misconceptions about Communications Centres and the 111 system."
The Northern Communications Centre covers from Cape Reinga in the north to Turangi in the south. It covers a population of 2,000,000 and receives approximately 775,000 calls per year.
The Central Communications Centre covers from Taumarunui and East Cape in the north to Wellington in the south. It covers a population of 1,000,000 and receives approximately 350,000 calls per year.
The Southern Communications Centre covers the South Island and Stewart Island. It covers a population of 900,000 and receives approximately 350,000 calls per year
For more information please contact:
Northern Communications Media Manager
Philippa White
027 223 6743