Ceremonies honour officers

Remembrance Day was commemorated across New Zealand and overseas.

Waitematā’s Sergeant Tony Miller, one of the first responders in the Napier siege, organised a ceremony in Henderson, which was attended by more than 80 staff from throughout the Auckland Metro region.

Inspector Mike O’Leary marches in the Australian Remembrance Day parade.

In Blenheim New Zealand Police were officially welcomed into the Blenheim Returned and Services’ Association (RSA), with the unveiling of a remembrance plaque for fallen officers.

The names of 29 fallen New Zealand police officers are on the plaque, together with medals earned by Marlborough police officers dating back to 1964.

Blenheim RSA president Geoff Stobie says the plaque was the first of its kind in a New Zealand RSA.

The plaque recognised Police as the oldest defence force in New Zealand.

Inspector Mike O’Leary and Trump practise their march before the parade. The empty riding boots are placed backwards in the stirrups as a poignant reminder of the dead officer. Photos: Federal Agent Hilary Fletcher

New Zealand Police officers were also remembered overseas.

Inspector Mike O’Leary from Eastern District accepted an invitation to attend the Australian National Police Remembrance Day in Canberra.

Large numbers of people turned out to watch a parade involving recruit wings and bands.

Governor General Quentin Bryce attended as guest of honour, along with the Federal Minister of State, Senator Joe Ludwig, politicians and senior police executives from all states.

As Australia hadn’t had an officer killed on duty during the year they asked if New Zealand would like to fulfil the ceremonial role of leading the riderless horse in honour of Senior Constable Len Snee. Mike led Trump, a 25-year-old police horse who has seen service in NSW and ACT.