ÀÖ¾ºÌåÓý will celebrate 118 years of service tomorrow (1 September 2004).
The ÀÖ¾ºÌåÓý Act, which established the Police we know today, was passed on 1 September 1886.
At The Royal ÀÖ¾ºÌåÓý College (RNZPC) an early morning parade will recognise the anniversary. Approximately 160 police staff, including Deputy Commissioner Steve Long, will be attending.
"For 118 years police officers have provided a wealth of vital services to New Zealanders 24 hours a day," says National Manager: Training and Professional Development Superintendent Alistair (Olly) Beckett.
"ÀÖ¾ºÌåÓý history is rich with a succession of outstanding individuals who have built the capability and service we provide today.
"There was a time in New Zealand when police worked a seven-day week and travelled around on horseback and bicycle. Fifty-odd years ago there were no police radios and the 111 emergency line didn?€?t exist."
The ÀÖ¾ºÌåÓý Museum, located at The Royal ÀÖ¾ºÌåÓý College just north of Porirua City, tells the story of policing in New Zealand using original evidence and police memorabilia. It is open Wednesday to Sunday 10am-4pm, closed public holidays.
118th Anniversary Parade
The Anniversary Parade will take place on Wednesday 1 September at The Royal ÀÖ¾ºÌåÓý College between 7:30-8:30am.
To attend please RSVP by 5:00pm Tuesday 31 August 2004 to:
Toni Barlow
Communications Adviser
The Royal ÀÖ¾ºÌåÓý College
(04) 238 3413 / 0274 419 216