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A publicity shy Hamilton policeman who saved the life of a young girl from drowning was recognised for bravery yesterday.
Waikato police communications manager Andrew McAlley said the off-duty constable, who asked not to be named, was walking along a bank of the Waikato River in Cambridge last July, when he noticed a young girl had fallen in the water.
Removing most of his clothing, the officer dived into the river and was swept 300m downstream before he could grab the girl and take her to safety.
When the officer returned the six-year-old to her mother, he simply said: "Make sure you behave for your mummy okay," then left without leaving his name, Mr McAlley said.
"His actions would have gone unheralded had the girl's mother not seen the officer's ID and informed Waikato police commanders of his actions."
The mother, who also requested anonymity, said the constable's actions had saved her daughter's life.
"The police were always getting attacked and the public need to know that even when off duty they will still risk their lives to save someone and he didn't want any recognition for it."
Awarding the constable a District Commander's Commendation, Superintendent Allan Boreham said his actions were in the highest traditions of the New Zealand Police.
The constable said he just happened to be in the right place at the right time.
"I just did what anyone else would do," he said.
- NZPA
