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FAQs

Ngā Pātai Auau

Frequently asked questions from people interested in becoming a Police officer.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are there many opportunities for professional development?

There is huge potential for professional development, with lots of different career pathways you can choose from.

Once you've completed two years as a probationary constable you can apply to work in other roles such as youth education, neighbourhood policing, the dive squad, search and rescue or the criminal investigation branch to name a few.

If you prove yourself, there are a lot of opportunities to step up into leadership roles, from becoming a sergeant, all the way through to becoming Police Commissioner.

Can I go straight into forensics/dog handling?

Once you have finished training at the RNZPC, you will be required to work as a probationary constable for two years. When you have completed this requirement, you are able to apply to work in specialised areas.

How do I become a Police Prosecutor?

To become a Prosecutor you need to either (a) be a Police employee holding the office of Constable or (b) hold a law degree (LLB) and a current practising certificate.

Visit the NZ Police website for more information.

How do I become a Police Communicator?

Please go to https://www.police.govt.nz/careers/non-sworn-careers/overview for more information on Communicator roles

You do not need to become a Police Officer to be a Communicator.

 

How much do police officers get paid?

Your pay is likely to increase along with your experience on the job. Find out more: Pay and Benefits

Would I have to do shift work, if so what are the rosters?

Most Police Officers work shifts. There are typically three shifts:

  • 6:30am to 3:30pm
  • 1:30pm to 11:30pm
  • 10:30pm to 6:30am.

You’ll work various shifts within a five-week (39 days) period, with 26 days working and 13 days off. Police Officers usually get three to four days off a week, rather than two.