Te Tai Tokerau, a land rich in history, culture and people, Northland lies between two coasts, the calm and tranquil waters of Te Tai Tama Wahine in the east (Pacific Ocean) and the strong, turbulent waters of Te Tai Tama Tāne in the west (Tasman Sea).
The story tells of Uenuku-kuare who grew up fatherless and was the eldest son of Rāhiri, making his journey from his home in the east in search of his father Rahiri, who lived on the West coast. After finding him and uniting with his brother Kaharau, thus formed our sacred house of Ngapuhi.
The following proverbial saying was uttered by Rahiri: “Ka mimiti te puna I Hokianga ka tōtō te puna I Taumārere. Ka mimiti te puna I Taumārere ka tōtō te puna I Hokianga."
This refers to the journey of siblings and when one spring is empty, the other is full. Meaning, in times of need and when support is required, it will be offered by the other coast and vice versa.
Our narrative follows the journey of Uenuku-kuare and, in turn, tells the stories of our people across our remote communities in search of those things that were/are absent in their lives that only home can provide. Many of whom have become the change agents for their whānau, and our roles and purpose are to unite our people and communities to be safe, well and prosperous.
Our journey then ventures north from Hokianga, following Te Oneroa a Tohe into the lands of Muriwhenua and the tribes of the far North, also known as Te Hiku O Te Ika, who are the gate keepers to Te Rerenga Wairua. This is also the pathway that we believe to be taken by those of our spirit world once their service to communities is completed.
Te Tai Tokerau / Northland has many challenges, and we would like to think that we look at things differently and apply a different lens, which at times, is what we are known for.
For a long time, it was said that you couldn’t and shouldn’t “police” among your own people. Many of our people are associated with whānau who have a commitment to service, lead by example and have taught us how to play active roles in our communities. We are, effectively, driven by our DNA, our whakapapa. That’s what makes this different.
Our people want us to be here and be the difference of change. That’s also why we want to share our place with others as well. Many of our staff have chosen to move to our place for those same reasons.
So, if you're ready to work, be challenged and hugely rewarded, find out what you need to know about becoming a cop on newcops.govt.nz.