Community Constables

There are about 175 Community Constables stationed around New Zealand. Many are stationed in offices outside the central police station, or check under Police in the Index of Government Services at the front of your telephone book.

The information below details some of the duties carried out by Community Constables. However, it should be stressed that they are available to give advice and offer assistance on a whole host of issues, which may not necessarily involve breaches of the criminal law.


Common Duties

Operational Community Constables perform the full range of duties of the position as set out in the activity area:

  • Community Policing
  • General Policing
  • Traffic Policing


Community Policing

Contributing to the provision of a community consultative police service within the geographical area by:

  • Identifying local problems
  • Assisting with solving area problems
  • Liaison with local Victim Support Groups
  • Maintaining a positive profile and close liaison with persons, groups and schools
  • Increasing the reporting of information on local crime and disorder problems and disseminating that information
  • Maintaining close liaison with local police personnel
  • Providing advice on crime prevention to the public
  • Establishment and maintenance of appropriate support groups within the community


General Policing

Assist in the provision of a police service which contributes to the maintenance of a safe, secure and lawful environment for the public by:

Community Oriented Policing

  • Assisting in establishing and maintaining partnership links between the Police and local communities

Incident Response

  • Providing a Police response to incidents which threaten public safety, order or the rule of law
  • Assisting in activities directed at reducing the incidence and effects of crime through crime control strategies, detecting, apprehending and prosecuting suspects, providing support for victims of crime and activities which minimise the fear of crime among citizens
  • Assisting in providing community support and protection during disasters and emergencies


Road Policing

Contributes to the objectives of the Safety Administration Programme by:

  • Providing an initial police response to Traffic incidents, events and emergencies

Assisting in reducing the number of road accidents and enhancing the safe and efficient use of roads through:

  • Patrol duties directed at compliance of general traffic law and the promotion of safe driving practices
  • Targeting of alcohol/drug impaired road users
  • Promoting and enforcing the use of vehicle restraint devices

Assisting in educating and informing the community on road safety initiatives with emphasis on school visits to promote and supervise:

  • Child safety education
  • Bicycle helmet protection
  • School crossing patrols
  • Community liaison
7321 since 9 Apr 2006