38505 (2025). Hon Ginny Andersen to the Minister of Police

38505 (2025). Hon Ginny Andersen to the Minister of Police: Is it the Minister's expectation that there would be different response times if an officer based in Culverden responded to a Culverden call out, compared to if they were based in Rangiora?

Hon Mark Mitchell: I have had many members of the public, including Mayors, MPs and community groups, raise concerns with me in relation to the Canterbury Police restructure proposal. Firstly, I want to acknowledge our Canterbury Police who are delivering world class policing and delivering results for the communities they serve. I want to acknowledge Canterbury Police Senior Leadership and District Commander Tony Hill who have been attending public meetings and engaging with the public to explain the proposals. It is very clear that the lack of information made available has resulted in confusion and concern at the potential loss of rural police officers. Police have now released a public consultation document setting out the proposal and I encourage people to read it and provide their feedback through the appropriate channel - canterbury.review@police.govt.nz. I know Police are listening and my expectation is that the views of the communities affected are prioritised and responded to accordingly. Police have operational independence as to how and where they deploy staff. Those decisions are guided by the priorities and expectations of the Government of the day. This Government has been very clear that we expect to see increased visibility and presence, much tougher policing of gangs, back to basics policing and targets set for a reduction in victimisations and youth offending. The Government has invested significant amounts of new money because public safety is extremely important to us. Our Police, led by Commissioner Chambers, are doing an outstanding job of delivering on the Governments priorities and making our country safer. In relation to this proposal, it is up to Police to set out the case for any change and justify it by assuring affected communities that they will not lose but gain as a result. Any final proposal that does not meet my expectations would not receive my support as Minister.