Cat and kittens cared for in Ōnehunga

Maureen and Horse Photo: Senior Sergeant Hirone Waretini, Ōnehunga

A recent story in Ten-One about Lower Hutt Area Commander Inspector Richard Chambers and his attraction for local moggies prompted OC Ōnehunga Senior Sergeant Hirone Waretini to contact Ten-One about Horse, the ‘station cat’.

Horse is the longest serving member of staff and has ruled over Ōnehunga police station for the past eight years. During that time he has developed a very special relationship with station typist Maureen Parker.

Maureen, an incredibly youthful 74-year-old, has worked for police for 20 years and at Ōnehunga for the past seven. She is currently undergoing treatment for cancer.

“Maureen is an amazing lady who has given so much to police,” says Hirone. “She and Horse are a big part of what makes Ōnehunga a great station. All of her colleagues and Horse want her to get well and return to work soon.”

Constable Sloane McLeod and Senior Sergeant Hirone Waretine with the kittens. Photo: Jason Oxenham, Central Leader

However, Horse isn’t the only cat at Ōnehunga.

Earlier this year Constable Sloane McLeod rescued three kittens from the roadside when their mother was killed by a car.

Only 10 days old when they came into her care, the kittens were brought to the station by Sloane, who ensured someone was around to feed them every four hours.

She continued to bring them in until they were old enough to be adopted.

Last December Hirone organised a fundraiser for the SPCA, collecting food and blankets for the animals in care.