NEWS RELEASE – Wellington City Councillor, Paul Eagle

7 December 2015

Pasifika Patrollers celebrate first birthday

Wellington’s Pasifika communities have joined police and civic leaders to celebrate the first anniversary of the city’s ‘Pasifika Patrollers’.

Wellington City Council, Police and Community Patrols New Zealand worked with Pasifika leaders to launch the voluntary service to keep pacific people safe and crime free.

Police have vetted and trained 33 women and men who have patrolled Wellington’s CBD, community events and festivals, as well as more sombre events such as Jerry Collins' funeral in Porirua.

Councillor Paul Eagle, chair of the committee responsible for city safety and member of the city’s Pasifika Advisory Group says the initiative ushered in a new era of leadership for Wellington’s Pasifika communities.

“This initiative is about Pasifika people owning the issues that impact on their communities – and responding in a culturally appropriate way.”

“We have been guided in our work an expert committee chaired by community leader, Nari Auelua, together with long serving Samoan Presbyterian Minister, the Rev. Tauinaola Tofilau.”

Cr Eagle applauded Wellington police and Community Patrols New Zealand for their work.

“The foresight by police to establish a Pacific Liaison Officer role and appointment of Constable Loretta Hunt-Tevaga was the vital decision in making the initiative a success. The community wanted one of their own – they got her – and been 100% supportive.”

“Having an established and successful umbrella organisation such as Community Patrols New Zealand meant the systems and processes were in place to start immediately.”

Councillor Eagle says the Pasifika Patrollers empower pacific people to prevent crime and victimisation because often talking with someone of the same culture provides the understanding, support and encouragement needed to make good choices.

“The patrollers look out for vulnerable people, people at risk and the young so they can offer support and guidance. They are well respected within their communities. They know the families and with their unique pacific approach, have made a big difference.”

People wanting to become a Pasifika Patroller can contact Constable Loretta Hunt-Tevaga on 04 381 2000 or by e-mail: Loletta.Hunt-Tevaga@police.govt.nz

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