Southern police and local Māori gathered together for a pōwhiri in mid-September to sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) that signifies a stronger relationship between the two parties.

“Signing the memorandum was a significant occasion for both parties, formalising our desire to strengthen the relationship, as we work towards a common goal of safer communities together,” says Southern Police District Commander, Superintendent George Fraser.

The MOU was signed at Puketeraki Marae, Karitane, by upoko of Ka Papatipu Runanga within Araiteuru takiwā and Southern District police representatives including Superintendent Fraser, Pouwhakataki Sergeant Matenga Gray, Area Commander: Dunedin & Clutha, Inspector Dave Campbell and Acting Area Commander Otago Rural, Inspector Dave Miller.

Pouwhakataki Sergeant Matenga Gray (far left) and Southern District Commander, Superintendent George Fraser, look on as runaka representatives, David Ellison (left) and Kuao Langsbury sign the MOU. Photo: Vivien Pullar

Superintendent Fraser says that the MOU had a number of strands.

“It will be used as a base for consultation around strategic priorities and plans, and in the development of crime prevention and education initiatives. It will also foster the increased responsiveness of police to the needs of Māori so that we can work more effectively with our community.”

The memorandum supports the already-established Otakou Māori Advisory Group, which provides Māori input into police policies and procedures, and acknowledges and formalises an informal relationship that has always existed.

The MOU follows on from the signing of a similar document with the Murihiku Māori community four years ago, which has resulted in a noticeable strengthening of the relationship between Murihiku Māori and Police.