On Saturday 21st February a number of off duty Police staff will march for the first time in full uniform in the Auckland Pride Parade.
Police Commissioner Mike Bush says it will be a proud moment for staff when they march in their full uniform, supported by friends, family and whanau.
“As an organisation we look to encourage staff to ‘use who they are’ not ‘lose who you are’ when becoming a police officer.”
“Therefore it’s important to encourage staff to show pride in the communities they represent.
We are a diverse organisation and should celebrate that diversity and treasure all the differences that make each of us unique.
This is one of the major reasons that Valuing Diversity is now one of the core values of the New Zealand Police.”
Over the past year a committee of Auckland Diversity Liaison Officers have been working to ensure the organisation is professionally represented in the parade by sworn and non-sworn staff of various rank, gender identity or orientation.
“Staff are well organised and prepared for this year’s parade and while I can’t give too much away…. the committee plans to put on a good show. I wish them well for a successful evening.”
The march will be led by Assistant Commissioner, Alan Boreham.
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Media please note: The Commissioner is unavailable for interviews.
Assistant Commissioner, Alan Boreham is available today. Please contact Mere Wilson Tuala-Fata, Senior Media Advisor via email mere.wilson@police.govt.nz to arrange an interview.
Any requests for interviews on SATURDAY, please contact Beth Bates, Waitemata District Comms Manager on 021 192 1243 or beth.bates@police.govt.nz to arrange.
Diversity liaison officers are located throughout New Zealand to provide liaison between Police and gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender and intersex (GLBTI) communities.
Diversity Liaison officers (DLO) often work in partnership with GLBTI communities to assist and provide advice with crime prevention projects, support and attend community events and deliver training to raise awareness of GLBTI community issues. DLO’s also play a supportive role for other Police employees, providing advice and support to colleagues regarding GLBTI issues.
NZ Police strives to be an organisation which is responsive to the needs of all New Zealanders and truly reflective of the society and communities’ staff work in. To achieve that goal, we encourage and welcome anyone, who is motivated to help their community, irrespective of gender, ethnicity or sexuality, to apply to join Police.
To take the first step to becoming a cop, visit newcops.co.nz.
