Wednesday, 8 October 2025 - 9:15am

Brewing stronger community connections

1 min read

News article photos (3 items)

Senior Constable Duane Coffin and Constable Valentine Beattie connect with locals at a Hastings cafe.
Senior Constable Mark O'Shaughnessy chats with customers in Marewa, Napier
Constable Gemma Baylis in Taradale
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Frontline

​Hawke’s Bay residents had the chance sit down for a chat and a cuppa with their local police officer last week.

Cafes across the bay - including in Napier, Hastings, Flaxmere, Taradale, Bayview and Havelock North - were chosen, with officers stationed at each giving out free council-sponsored coffees for those keen to sit down for a chat.

It’s the first year Hastings and Havelock North have joined the initiative which is supported by local councils and business associations.

Those attending included people interested in finding out more about becoming a police officer, others keen to discuss concerns in their neighbourhood and some who were keen to learn more about the work police do in their communities.

Community and Youth Senior Sergeant Ross Smith says the informal conversations are a great way to build trust, break down barriers and strengthen relationships between Police and the community.

Coffee with a cop

Constable Hazel Mitchell chats with customers in Marewa, Napier.