It all started with a chance meeting at the Kmart Plaza in Hastings.
Ninety-year-old Zena stopped to chat to Sergeant Laura Bevan and Senior Constable Jason Ingram who were on foot patrol.
During the conversation, she commented on how lovely it was to see officers walking the beat and being visible in the community. She shared that both she and her friend felt much safer knowing police were nearby and regularly engaging with members of the public.
As the conversation continued, Zena mentioned she was about to re-sit her driver’s licence as she was turning 90. In New Zealand, you need to renew your driving licence every two years after your 80th birthday.
Zena's positive attitude and determination impressed the officers and Jason thought it would be great to celebrate this driving milestone if she was successful – and she was.
So, Laura and Jason arranged to catch up with Zena again when they were in her area. To make the occasion even more special an Eastern District staff member baked and donated a birthday cake for the celebration.
When the officers stopped by for a quick visit, Zena was over the moon to see them. Together they celebrated her achievement and her 90th birthday.
Laura says what began as a simple conversation became a memorable moment for everyone involved.
“It was a wonderful example of the positive relationships that can be built through everyday interactions.”