Women's work in focus

The work of women in Police was thrown into focus as Police Commissioner Mike Bush announced three significant initiatives to enhance understanding of women's roles, and their ability to excel across the organisation.

Women in Blue, a new reality TV show, will follow seven female New Zealand officers as they combat crime and support victims in our communities in a range of frontline roles.

Women in Blue was announced at an event at Police National Headquarters In Wellington, where speakers included Commissioner Bush and Police Minister Anne Tolley.

Also announced was a new recruitment drive to recruit more women to a Police career.

The third initiative is the Police Women’s Advisory Network, which has been established by a number of senior women within Police to better support the recruitment and development of women.

"Initiatives to attract women to a career with Police and support their advancement are showing results," says Commissioner Bush.

"The number of women in our constabulary ranks has increased by 46 percent over the past ten years, and women now make up nearly 20 percent of 8,845 constabulary staff.

"We're looking for new young leaders with communication skills, empathy and problem solving abilities. These skills are crucial to prevent crime and victimisation in our communities."

The website WomenInBlue.co.nz has been created to support the TV series - and by visiting the site viewers can get the chance to join one of the women on a Police ride-along.

The first of eight episodes of Women in Blue will screen on TV One at 7.30pm on 22 April.