Appointed to the position of National Coordinator Family Harm Partnerships, Invercargill’s Sergeant Mel Hinga is bringing all her experience, and more, to the high-profile role.
Mel has started her mahi in the Police National Headquarters (PNHQ) position, and hit the ground running with some big ideas and a fair bit of travel on the cards.
“PNHQ will effectively be my home station but as a national resource I will go wherever I am needed to support Family Harm multi-agency partners across the motu,” says Mel.
“I will travel throughout the country regularly and work closely with the team at PNHQ. However, with remote working capability I have the opportunity of work back home in Invercargill.
“My first week has been jam-packed with multiple hui and a site visit to Whāngaia Ngā Pā Harakeke in Tairāwhiti.”
Mel’s experience and innovation in completing a five-month development opportunity as the Director Whāngaia Ngā Pā Harakeke ki Murihiku gave her the confidence to apply for the national role, but the enjoyment and satisfaction Mel found at Whāngaia also played a big part in pushing her further.
“I absolutely loved the ethos and culture of a multi-agency partnership and approach to family harm. Being able to work with and alongside partner agencies, collaborating on ideas with a holistic approach and a Te Ao Māori lens, is an environment I thrived in.”
Her new role is all about supporting police districts around Aotearoa in their efforts to partner with other stakeholders differently and more effectively – a task Mel relishes.
“Being able to work in space that relies on enduring relationships is groundbreaking for Police and an exciting space to work in. A relationship that is genuine, ongoing and reciprocal with communities, before and beyond tactical engagement, is something I want to be able to support our people through.”
Mel will be in the national role for 12 months, which is sure to be a busy time, but an experience she is looking forward to.
“Being able to support our directors into a space of trust with partner agencies and iwi is something I am excited to be a part of.”