Bald on the beat – ten years on and still going strong

Getting your head shaved in Rotorua to fundraise for teen cancer is as popular and successful now as it was 10 years ago.

In early November this year, 64 police staff – including six women – had their heads shaved for CanTeen and Rotorua Child Cancer. 700 people attended the Rotorua Convention Centre event with $72,000 raised.

The night echoed the success of 10 years ago when 87 staff were shaved and $67,000 raised for CanTeen BOP Waikato.

Organiser of both events, Rotorua Detective Sergeant Chris McLeod, says the event was a huge success, not only for the money raised but also for the goodwill it generated.

“It was hugely successful for all involved, helping boost morale and our image with the local and national public,” says Chris.  

“The initiative was driven by ground level staff and was a credit to the small but well motivated committee,” says Chris.

Celebrity guests included Minister of Police, Hon. Annette King and Police Ten-7 host and former Detective Inspector, Graham Bell. Graham was MC for the official proceedings.

In total, around 80 people had their heads shaved, including members of the public and Rotorua District Court Judge, Chris McGuire. Chris was sponsored $500 on the night by the local Crown Solicitor. Seven officers’ sons also lost their hair with their dads.

Chris McLeod’s son Daniel – Head Boy at John Paul College – networked with his peers from Rotorua boys and girls colleges, encouraging them to take part in a pre-publicity shaving on the Friday before the event. They were joined by an officer who couldn’t make it on the night. Local schools raised around $7000 with mufti and gold-coin days.