Rural Policing Proposal Draws Strong Response

A community meeting facilitated by Council on 15 August drew over 240 attendees, reflecting the deep concern across our district regarding proposed changes to rural policing by NZ Police.

The meeting was attended by Aoraki Area Commander Vicki Walker, Senior Sergeant Richard Quested and Canterbury Metro Commander Superintendent Lane Todd, who presented the proposal and responded to public questions. Mayor Craig Rowley spoke on behalf of Council, clearly expressing the district’s strong opposition to the proposed changes.

Key concerns include the proposed closure of the St Andrews Police Station and the replacement of current officers at the Waimate Police Station with two rural liaison officers. Mayor Rowley emphasised that this proposal is unacceptable and would significantly compromise public safety, particularly in rural areas. He pointed to the likely increase in response times to serious incidents and the vital role police play during civil defence emergencies. An over-reliance on centralised deployment risks weakening our district’s emergency response capabilities and eroding the value of local knowledge held by our officers.

Council extends its sincere thanks to all community members who attended the meeting and held the police to account. We will continue advocating on your behalf and voicing concerns on this critical issue.

Council has submitted a formal response along with another joint submission signed by Mayor Craig Rowley and Mayor Nigel Bowen (Timaru District Council), urging reconsideration of the proposal.

We recommend the following alternative solutions:

• Maintain a permanent police presence in Waimate, with at least three full-time constables and one full-time Frontline Station Support Officer.
• Ensure Rural Liaison Officers reside locally, rather than being deployed from central hubs.

Together, we can advocate for a policing model that truly serves and protects our rural communities.

Waimate District Council's submission

Joint submission - Mayor Craig Rowley and Mayor Nigel Bowen (Timaru District Council)