After 51 years of sterling service to the people of Auckland, the city’s Central Police Station is set for retirement.
Police Commissioner Mike Bush today confirmed Auckland Central Police Station is due to close next year, with services shifting to a new central city base just over a kilometre away at 13-15 College Hill.
“I’m delighted to confirm the lease signing that will enable the move to a more modern, fit-for-purpose Auckland Central Police Hub,” says Commissioner Bush.
“This will mean improved working conditions for staff and better operational functionality, and enable more responsive policing services to the public.”
Police and the owner of 13-15 College Hill plan to redevelop and fit-out the new property to operate as the Auckland City District Headquarters and Auckland Central Area Police hub.
Commissioner Bush says the change follows an extensive property search to improve Police’s current facilities and workspace, while ensuring continued service delivery and value for money.
The move comes as Police seeks to modernise its property portfolio in Tāmaki Makaurau to provide more fit-for-purpose workplaces. The refurbishment of Harlech House, Otahuhu, and linked changes to other buildings were announced in July.
“Police are committed to maintaining a substantial presence within Auckland City and enabling our staff to deploy and deliver policing services into the future within this rapidly growing city and surrounding communities,” says Commissioner Bush.
The current Auckland Central, on the corner of Vincent and Cook streets, was opened by Police Commissioner Colin Urquhart and Minister of Police Percy Allen on 12 September 1967.
Auckland Central, soon
after opening in 1967.
Auckland City District Commander Karyn Malthus says the new location has good access to transport links and arterial routes “which is important for ensuring we are able to deliver world-class policing services to the public.
“The building will be upgraded with a new-fit out to accommodate the growth in staffing numbers over the coming years,” she says. “It will house nearly 400 staff and includes more than 150 car parks, with additional public parking nearby.”
Auckland City District is due to receive 103 new officers - a 13 percent increase – under the current recruitment surge.
Because the new building is very close to Ponsonby Police Station, Ponsonby staff will relocate to College Hill or Avondale Station and a new facility will be opened within the CBD.
“I am confident that community access to Police in the city will be improved,” says Karyn
Police expect to occupy the College Hill site from mid-2019, and will soon undertake a feasibility and options study to consider the long-term options for the existing properties.