Police Applaud Public's Co-Operation
New Zealand Police National News Release
5:49pm 22 January 2008
http://www.police.govt.nz/news/release.html?id=3656

Auckland Police are applauding the public for their well demonstrated co-operation throughout today's State funeral for Sir Edmund HILLARY.

Police Operations Commander Inspector Derek DAVISON says if ever there was an occasion when it was possible to achieve perfection, this was it.

"There were no incidents. There was no traffic congestion. Not one vehicle came towards the motorcade. The behaviour and attitude adopted by both drivers and pedestrians was excellent."

"The public took our suggestions on board and their response was extraordinary. Even after the service everyone dispersed smoothly and methodically."

"All our preparations paid off handsomely. Everyone including our partner agencies wanted the same outcome and it was achieved by all concerned."

"Thousands of people lined the route from the Cathedral to St Johns Road. In the Domain there were an estimated 10 thousand people."

"Along Park Road, Broadway, and Khyber Pass there was a wall of people. Many were standing 3-4 deep in places. Retailers and other business closed their doors as a mark of respect."

"All ages, all ethnicities, the able and disabled, all were represented."

"Many people clapped. Others chose to throw flowers as the Cortege passed solemnly by. It took the motorcade exactly 60 minutes to travel the 10 kilometre journey to Purewa Cemetery, averaging 10 km/ph."

"Everywhere people openly displayed their personal warmth, affection and respect for the late Sir Edmund HILLARY. This level of engagement and expression by the wider community is rarely seen in New Zealand."

"To command the policing operations for this state ceremonial occasion has been both an honour and a privilege. My staff of sixty endured a compressed time frame for achievement and I am proud of the manner in which this entire police operation was accomplished."

"Like many others my staff wanted to be part of a very special moment. They wanted to say farewell to Sir Ed along with the rest of New Zealand, and they did."

"A State funeral is a rare event in New Zealand and in terms of public numbers present, this was as BIG as it can get!"

"I acknowledge all those who contributed to the success of this national event. It was certainly a fitting and momentous way to honour a man we identify as being a true New Zealander," Inspector DAVISON said.

ENDS

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