A group of thirteen new police officers from Wing 251 step out on to the streets in Canterbury Police District this week, twelve in Christchurch and one in Timaru.
All will begin in general duties with the groups on the front line. Christchurch staff will be in the three areas, Central, Southern and Northern.
District Commander Dave Cliff says the thirteen new staff from Wing 251 will bring staff numbers up to just over the establishment number of 870.
"It is a pleasure to welcome the new staff into the district. They've joined the police to make the community safer and their enthusiasm, training and personal life experiences will enable them to do just that."
Both first and second prize winners for the Wing are posted to Canterbury.
The Minister's Prize for First in Wing was awarded to Constable Dougall STRUTHERS, previously an adventure tour guide, travel agent and communicator in Police Southern Communication Centre.
The Commissioner's Prize for Second in Wing was awarded to Constable Imogen BARRY who also worked in the Southern Communication Centre.
The wide range of work experience the new officers bring to policing includes work as hotel manager, bank officer, accounts administrator, furniture finisher, two butchers, a baliff, personal trainer, courier and a fashion consultant. Many are also parents, one of four children.