Mixed reaction to new-look civilian police uniform

Nick Udy in the new polo shirt for temporary constables.

The police force has quickly responded to the controversy over its non-sworn officers being issued with standard police uniforms by releasing a less formal wardrobe for the 330 affected staff.

Several weeks ago the Government was accused of using "decoy cops" to boost police numbers, after it was revealed civilians were being allowed to wear full police regalia while guarding crimes scenes or transporting prisoners.

Police referred to the 330 staff as "temporary constables", who wore the uniform without having received full police training.

The temporary officers have no powers of arrest and do not carry pepper spray, handcuffs or batons.

Yesterday, police human resources manager Wayne Annan issued photos of the new uniform for non-sworn staff, which he said was developed in consultation with district stations.

Standard police trousers and belts will be worn with a navy blue polo shirt and a zip-up jacket, both tops inscribed with the police logo.

"The uniform is quite distinct from the standard uniform and it will be quite obvious to staff and members of the public that the wearer is not a fully sworn officer," Mr Annan said.

On the streets yesterday there was a mixed reaction to the new uniform.

Initially, Peter Dalbeth said he thought the uniform was being worn by a fully fledged police officer on a special assignment.

He said too many security officers wore uniforms that were far too similar to the police uniform. The latest wardrobe release would confuse the issue even further.

Passer-by Anthony Clarke said, "It's not obvious to me that it's a policeman," when shown a photo of the new threads.

"It looks more like a security officer, or it could be a footballer or supporter of the All Blacks."

Mr Clarke then took a closer look and saw the police logo.

"From a dress point of view it looks quite smart but it's just not distinguishable enough.

"If I read the label I would obey him, otherwise I'd be wondering where he's getting his authority from."

Hamilton resident Michelle Ward said her impression was that the uniform was being worn by someone who was seeking to look like a policeman.

She would be suspicious if she was approached by someone wearing the jacket or polo shirt, and said she would demand that police identification was produced.

"It looks like it's being worn by one of the guys helping police with extra manpower, who don't exactly have all the same duties and powers.

"Perhaps they could make it more distinguishable by changing the colour, maybe to a bluey-grey."

John McIntyre said if the uniform was worn in conjunction with a baton, handcuffs and a radio it would be more obvious to him that he was dealing with a police officer.

However, he thought the uniform was suitable for a non-sworn officer.

"It looks pretty respectable. The logo is big and clear, so I'm happy with it."