Monday, 21 January 2008 - 6:30pm |
National News

Policing Plans For Funeral Going Smoothly

2 min read

Auckland Police are satisfied their ongoing preparations for tomorrow's State funeral for the late Sir Edmund HILLARY are proceeding smoothly.

Operations Commander Inspector Derek DAVISON says the estimated 60 police staff will be focused on safety assurance in road policing, crowd control, and the requirements for HILLARY family's attendance.

"Our principal objectives are to maintain the flow of traffic and people without too many closures or general interruption. We are maintaining a muted and low key presence during this auspicious event," he said.

"There will be some delays from 10.00am onwards particularly in Parnell, within the vicinity of St Mary's Church and Holy Trinity Cathedral. The required street closures will be for as minimum a duration as possible."

"Police will be carrying out point duty at every major intersection as the cortege journeys on its route from the Cathedral to Remuera and St Johns roads. Mobile patrols will stop or divert vehicles that are travelling in the opposite direction to the motorcade. Anyone intending to carry out any overtaking manoeuvres will be stopped."

"The best location to view the service and the cortege motorcade is without question the Auckland Domain. It is a marvellous venue and the large video wall facility that has been put in place will give everyone an unobstructed view of this rare ceremonial State occasion. There's accessible parking space at the Domain for those going there."

"There is no seating access for the general public in the Cathedral. This venue is already at capacity and is for invited guests only. Those who are guests will be able to park their vehicles near Shore Road Reserve and they will then be transported by shuttle bus to the Cathedral."

"The past weeks of preparations has offered us some challenges because of the compressed time frames in which we have been working to. This state ceremonial occasion is well organised and will be clearly demonstrated for all to see."

"It is a privilege to command the policing operations for this event. I have skilled dedicated staff engaged and they are committed to carrying out their essential policing duties at this event."

"The retail and business sector is well covered in the cortege route."

"On such occasions human nature can often impact on local business. I recommend to everyone who has a business to take security measures at both the front and rear of their business or property while the cortege in passing by."

"There's anticipation that tomorrow's State funeral will attract a massive public response both in the Domain and along the route being taken by the motorcade."

"The funeral cortege will travel solemnly and slowly en route and the anticipated speed of 15 kilometres an hour will provide people with a rare opportunity to pay individual homage in their own personal way," Inspector Derek DAVISON said.

ENDS:

Kevin [Kev] Loughlin

District Communications Manager / Media Advisor

Waitemata Police District

Phone 09 488 9758 - Extn 96308 - Mobile 027 281 0271

Email - kevin.loughlin@police.govt.nz