WALKING THE WALK, BARKING THE BARK

Five new police patrol dog teams are now on duty after graduating from the New Zealand Police Dog Training Centre (DTC) in Trentham.

The teams graduated on August 1, alongside five New Zealand Customs dog teams, in a ceremony attended by family, friends, Police Commissioner Andrew Coster, and members of the New Zealand Police Executive.

Among the official guests were Chief Executive and Comptroller of Customs Christine Stevenson, Superintendent Greg Dowse from the Australian Border Force, and Associate Police Minister Casey Costello.

Commissioner Coster extended his congratulations to the new handlers. “Today is a momentous occasion for you, and we appreciate your dedication to a crucial aspect of policing in New Zealand,” he said.

“To our Police handlers: you earn the respect of our communities through your work in operational roles, prevention efforts, and public relations activities like school visits.”

He also highlighted the successful collaborations with Customs and the Australian Border Force, emphasizing their joint efforts in enhancing dog capabilities across New Zealand and the Pacific region.

National Coordinator Police Dogs Inspector Todd Southall highlighted the essential role of dog teams within the Tactical Response Model and praised the trainees for their role in a real-life burglary apprehension during their training exercise.

“I’ve seen your dedication and enthusiasm for working with dogs, and it was clearly demonstrated when you assisted in apprehending burglars at Trentham Racecourse while still in training,” Southall said.

“You applied your training effectively and played a crucial part in catching the offenders in a real-world situation.”

Constable Connor Loomans started his career in Waikato before relocating to Tairāwhiti to take on a Delta role.

Connor describes his two-year-old dog, Ruki, as a well-behaved, hardworking companion with a relaxed demeanor, especially appreciated during hot weather thanks to his personal paddling pool.

“Joining the Dog Section was always something I aimed for when I started with the Police, and it’s fantastic to finally be here,” he says.

“The training has been outstanding; I’ve gained valuable skills from various trainers and, of course, from my peers,” he says.

Constable Jarom Brouwer and his dog Tahi also headed to Tairāwhiti, with Tahi previously fostered by Acting Sergeant Stu Rota.

Constable Mike Limbrick and three-year old Ryka, who was formerly fostered and trained by Constable Blair Robertson, are stationed in Rotorua.

“He’s hard case off-duty but when he’s at work he just kicks into gear.”

Constable Jordie Walker and his four-year-old dog Acure are now based in New Plymouth. Jordie describes Acure as a “smart and reliable girl” and is eager to start working with her on the streets.

Constable Andrew Lomax, who graduated with 18-month-old Aero, will be assigned to the Canterbury District.

Among the five Customs dog teams, two will be stationed in Auckland, two in Christchurch, and one in Wellington.

“Customs detector dog teams will add another crucial layer of defense to safeguard New Zealand’s borders and play a vital role in protecting communities by combating transnational crime,” said Comptroller Christine Stevenson.