On a cool and wet day in Uawa, Tolaga Bay on the East Coast, the warmth at Te Rawheoro Marae told a very different story.
Despite driving rain, kaumatua, local community members and police gathered to witness a deeply moving presentation of a korowai to Police Commissioner Richard Chambers. A gesture rich with meaning and aroha.
Under the cover of pergolas in front of the wharenui, the korowai was placed around the Commissioner’s shoulders, with locals performing a haka.korowait presentation
The presentation was filled with emotion, with speakers acknowledging both the challenges faced by police and the enduring relationship between Tolaga Bay and those who serve.
Padre Bill Gray spoke of the korowai as a sign of manaakitanga and support – not just for the Commissioner but for all police working on the East Coast. It was a reminder that in the toughest times, the bond between police and the community remains strong.
The Commissioner thanked the marae for the special taonga, saying the korowai would serve as a constant reminder of the trust placed in Police and the responsibility that comes with it.
He spoke of the three things that give him the strength to keep going in the job – leading 15,000 incredible people, the unwavering support of his wife and two children and the support he receives from communities like Uawa.
The day was also an opportunity to welcome new Tolaga Bay officer Constable Ian Tichborne, who replaces Constable Hector Ensor who has transferred to the Lower Hutt Tactical Crime Unit. Ian will work alongside long-standing Tolaga Bay Senior Constable Richard Reeves.