Boys in blue hit papakura streets

BY DAVID TAURANGA

A thick blue line carved its way through Papakura town centre last week as around 400 Counties Manukau police officers took part in the 2010 District Pay Parade.

Years ago police officers would be required to march in full dress uniform to the magistrate’s court to collect their fortnightly pay and before they could get their wages they’d have to pass an inspection first.

Back then officers would present themselves in their "number ones" and "hold out our hands for our well- earned pay", says district commander Mike Bush.

"Now we are here presenting ourselves to the community and we hold our hand out in partnership with the people we serve."

Sworn officers and civilian police staff marched side-by-side down Great South Rd to the sound of a police pipe band and the engines of three motorcycle units leading the way.

Lining the pavements were large numbers of Papakura residents and friends and family who turned out to watch their loved ones on show.

Also joining them was a contingent of special guests including Police Minister and Papakura MP Judith Collins, acting police commissioner Rob Pope and assistant commissioner Steve Shortland.

After the parade down Great South Rd a ceremony was held in Central Park and promotions and bravery and long-service medals were handed out to officers.

A notable appearance was made by Constable Jeremey Snow on crutches, recovering well after he was shot four times in a Papatoetoe driveway just before Christmas last year.

Acting police commissioner Rob Pope said the pay parade was a magnificent occasion and an example of all that was good about policing in south Auckland and across the whole country.

"As I look across this wonderful collection of men and women ... I get a strong sense of what you collectively wish to achieve for police and for your communities.

"People join the police because they want to ‘make a difference’. There is a genuine energy and commitment here to making that difference."

Mr Pope says this past year has been "quite remarkable" for Counties Manukau police – with stage 2 of the Manukau police hub opened and 200 extra officers on the streets.

They are also starting to see promising reductions in crime and road crashes.

Mr Pope praised the efforts of civilian staff who make an equal contribution to policing and he also acknowledged the families of police employees and constabulary staff.

Ms Collins wrapped up the speeches saying she was incredibly proud to see the sight of around 400 police officers marching through the streets of Papakura.

She also paid tribute to those officers who were not able to attend the parade and made special mention of constable John Connolly who was attacked while trying to break up a fight in Tuakau last month.

The number of people who stopped to watch the parade and the following ceremony spoke volumes about how much the community valued and respected the work of the police, she said.

- AAP