Police Act Review – News Release

30 June 2006

Public views sought on principles of policing

A discussion document on the principles of policing has been released for public comment as part of the review of the Police Act.

"The document is the first in a series of issues papers to be released over coming months as part of a comprehensive review of New Zealand Police's legislative framework," says Superintendent Hamish McCardle - the officer leading the review of the Police Act.

The government announced in March this year that the current Police Act, which dates from the 1950s, would be reviewed to bring the statute up-to-date for the 21st century.

Issues Paper 1: Principles asks a number of questions about the basic foundations of policing in New Zealand, and the extent to which these principles could be carried through into legislation. Key questions that are posed include:

Whether it would be worthwhile including a set of guiding principles for policing in a new Police Act (and if so, what might these principles be); and
Whether it would be helpful to spell out New Zealand Police's role and functions in a new Police Act (and if so, how broadly or narrowly should these be defined).


"Producing such discussion documents is an important part of the work to inform the modernisation of Police legislation," says Superintendent McCardle.

“Papers on the principles of policing, together with subsequent papers on topics like engaging with communities, and supporting the highest standards of integrity and conduct, help to get debate and discussion going.

“This form of consultation provides an opportunity to identify issues in the New Zealand context of policing, and for the best local and international ideas to contribute to the development of policy and legislation in this area.”

Responses to Issues Paper 1: Principles are sought by 31 July 2006. Copies of the document can be downloaded from the 'Consultation' section of the Police Act website at www.policeact.govt.nz. Hard copies are also available on request from the Police Act Review Team, c/- Office of the Police Commissioner, PO Box 3017, Wellington.

For more information about the review of the Act - including frequently asked questions - and regular updates please visit www.policeact.govt.nz

ENDS
Media Contact:
Rob Lee
Office of the Commissioner
(04) 470 7348
027 6755 399