Eastern District Police's new Area Commander Superintendent Tania Kura says her promotion gives her the opportunity to stay in the region she loves working in. She talks to Mark Story.
The title of 'Eastern Police top police officer' comes with what sort of pressures/privileges?
Pressures include the expectation for police to be across every social problem in every community. Privileges include working with energetic and enthusiastic people right across the Eastern District in an effort to make a difference. Also the ability to continue living in Hawke's Bay when I was expecting to have to move on after five years as the area commander.
Recent Eastern Police engagement results were up on last year - what do you attribute this to?
I think these results show that Eastern District staff continue to be strongly committed to the work they do. There are many factors which influence engagement, and we have focused on being consistent in our messages over several years. I count myself lucky to have such dedicated and highly motivated staff in Eastern District.
Are you in favour of police carrying firearms?
As a New Zealander my personal view is no. If we get to the stage where we need to be armed, I think New Zealand will have lost its innocence. Our working environment has changed over the decades but I believe NZ Police have responded to this appropriately with policies around O/C Spray/Taser and improved accessibility to firearms.
Recently you stated family violence is a top priority for you. Given so many factors are outside police control, how do you intend to tackle it?
Empowering whanau to be safe in their homes and on our roads is a priority for Eastern District. We need to think differently about the partnerships we have as we are only one part of the picture. We need to be receptive and responsive to whanau to understand the dynamics and where we can help best.
