Rejoin New Zealand Police
We are keen to hear from former New Zealand Police officers who are interested in rejoining.
Former employees whose last day of service was within the past 10 years may be eligible to return through the rejoin process.
Your training requirements will depend on your previous service and how long you have been away from New Zealand Police.
If you have any questions, contact rejoins@police.govt.nz.
Ready to get started?
Register your interest and a member of our rejoin team will contact you to discuss:
- your previous Police experience
- your career goals
- opportunities that may be available
- the most suitable training pathway for your circumstances
Rejoin Process
Every rejoin applicant is managed on a case-by-case basis, however the process will typically include the following steps.
1. Register Interest
Register your interest and we'll contact you to discuss your experience, career goals and available opportunities.
2. Initial Background Checks
We'll assess your eligibility and complete initial background checks, including professional conduct and employment history.
3. Vetting, Medical, Fitness and References
We'll complete a more enhanced background check. You'll complete the required medical, fitness and reference checks.
4. Vacancy Assessment
We'll discuss available opportunities and whether you may be suitable for a vacancy or direct appointment.
5. Offer
If all requirements have been met, we'll make an offer and confirm remuneration and start date.
6. Onboarding and Training
You'll complete any required training before being attested and returning to operational policing duties.
Training Pathways
Training requirements depend on how long you have been away from New Zealand Police.
Accelerated Policing Course
The next Accelerated Policing Course begins on 8 February 2027 at the Royal New Zealand Police College (RNZPC) in Porirua.
What is the Accelerated Policing Course?
The Accelerated Policing Course (APC) is a 10-week programme delivered at the Royal New Zealand Police College in Porirua.
The course recognises previous policing experience and provides focused training to prepare eligible applicants for policing in New Zealand.
Who is eligible?
The Accelerated Policing Course was originally developed for experienced Australian police officers joining New Zealand Police and has now been expanded to include eligible former NZ Police officers.
Entry into the APC is assessed on a case-by-case basis and is not guaranteed.
When should I apply, if I want to be considered for the next Accelerated Policing Course?
Start planning for 2027. The sooner you apply the more likely you are to secure a spot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Possibly. Eligibility depends on your previous service and individual circumstances. Our team will discuss available options with you.
Former employees normally re-enter New Zealand Police as a Constable or Detective (where Detective qualified).
If you wish to progress to a higher rank, you can do so through the merit-based process via National Advertised Vacancies (NAV).
Please contact the rejoin team before registering your interest so we can discuss your circumstances.
Timeframes vary depending on:
- completion of required checks
- District vacancies and positions in your preferred district and role
- training requirements
Your recruitment advisor will discuss likely timeframes throughout the process.
Depending on your circumstances, checks may include:
- professional conduct assessments
- feedback from the relevant District Commander, Director, and previous supervisors
- employment and service history checks
- background vetting
- medical assessment
- Physical Competency Test (PCT)
- employment references
Should you be considered for the Accelerated Policing Course, your application will be reviewed by a selection panel, which may consider:
- length of time away from NZ Police
- previous policing experience
- professional conduct history
- operational competency history
- organisational requirements
Training requirements depend on your previous service, experience and the length of time since leaving NZ Police. Your individual training plan will be confirmed during the recruitment process.
Some applicants may be considered for direct appointment where they meet the required criteria and a suitable vacancy is available.
You'll receive an onboarding and training plan based on your previous service and training requirements.
Once all training requirements have been completed and verified, you'll complete the attestation process and return to operational policing duties.