Police Commissioner recognises Defence Force's support following Christchurch earthquake

Police Commissioner Peter Marshall has presented plaques to the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) for its support and commitment to operations after the 22 February Christchurch earthquake.

Commissioner Marshall told the Defence Force Leadership Board and other personnel within NZDF Headquarters the joint commitment of NZDF and Police to the citizens of Christchurch remained vivid among the most poignant events of his career.

“In Police we are cognisant of what you all did - the range of activities you undertook: providing ships, aircraft and helicopters; ambulances and medics, cordon patrols and logistics - directly in support of the Police, as well as to support citizens in need, and tasks such as the Army Engineers who prepared the site for the mortuary at Burnham Camp,” he said.

“There is no way we could have met our police responsibilities in that situation without the support of NZDF.”

Commissioner Marshall said Police-Defence cooperation extended across the board, with the Napier siege and regular cannabis recovery operations as examples. He said many combined exercises ensured the organisations would continue to work well together:

Police has presented similar plaques to Australian police jurisdictions, St Johns, NZ Fire Service and Civil Defence to mark the support of these key organisations after the earthquake and reflect strengthened bonds with them.