"And I love that the role is a combination of both managing operational police staff and being the person to keep the police connected with our community."
Her role is wide and varied.
"There's a large element of service delivery, a lot of management of staff in regards to operational deployment, professional development and general performance and there's the relationship building and development with our community partners.
"It's really vital to me that Kapiti police continue to develop strategic and effective relationships with key stakeholders and that we continue to build on the trust and confidence that our community has in us."
She was looking forward to "meeting and working collaboratively with members of the Kapiti community and our wider partners to give our people the reassurance that Kapiti is and will continue to be a safe place to live, work and play".
Ms Chapman, a familiar face on the Kapiti police beat, has held various roles over the years including front line officer, intelligence analyst, family violence coordinator, community constable, communications team leader, and more.
Making a positive impact on people's lives and the fact every day was different were two aspects she enjoyed about being a policewoman.
"It's such a giving job and at times requires sacrificing some of our own time or enjoyment for the sake of people we don't even know but often the rewards that come from that are like nothing else.
"It's a job that can be stressful and even traumatic at times but I believe the good stuff we do and the great people we meet along the way far outweighs any of that.
"The camaraderie of staff and the ability to work together to make a difference in someone's life are some of the best things that happen for police officers every day."
A powhiri was held at Whakarongotai Marae today to welcome her to the role.
Ms Chapman replaces Anita Dixon who has left the force to pursue other opportunities.
