The Armed Offenders Squad marks its 50th anniversary this weekend and the public is invited to join in the commemorations.
A live demonstration at the Royal New Zealand Police College (RNZPC) at 2pm on Saturday will provide a rare behind-the-scenes look at the AOS in action. It will feature a mock scenario involving members of the
The public can also view a static display in the college gymnasium from 1.30pm and a New Zealand Police Museum exhibition charting the creation and evolution of the
The Armed Offenders Squad was founded in August 1964, when the first hand-picked officers began training at Papakura military camp. It was created in response to the fatal shooting of four Police officers less than a month apart in early 1963.
On 6 January 1963, a gunman opened fire on people at boarding kennels in Waitakere, killing the kennel owner and seriously wounding a customer. Detective Inspector Wallace Chalmers and Detective Sergeant Neville Power, who were among the first Police staff to respond to the incident, were shot dead.
On 3 February, Constables Bryan Schultz and James Richardson were called to a domestic incident in Lower Hutt. A man opened fire from the house, killing both officers before they could switch off their car’s engine.
Today, nearly 300 Police officers serve in 17 Armed Offenders Squads around New Zealand. They are volunteers who undergo a rigorous national selection and induction course. They receive regular additional training and are supported by negotiation teams and specially trained police dogs and handlers.
Gates at the RNZPC open at 1.30pm on Saturday and the live display runs from 2pm to 3.30pm. You can also see the static display in the gym. The Police Museum is open until 5pm.
The college café will be open to buy food, and there will be a coffee cart and sausage sizzle near the gym.
People intending to attend Saturday's events should note there is no public parking at the Police College, but parking is available on nearby streets.