Detective Sergeant Kate Smith

 

Detective Sergeant Kate Smith

Kate Smith
Home > Women in Blue 2 > Detective Sergeant Kate Smith

Detective Sergeant Kate Smith

I wanted to help people, particularly kids.

What is your current role and what does that involve?

I lead the Family Harm High and Complex Risk Team in Counties Manukau. We receive Family Harm cases involving high risk victims, offenders, and behaviours, and we assess these families and their underlying issues.

What role were you doing when Women in Blue was filmed in 2015?

I was a Detective Sergeant working in the CIB, working with a team on a variety of cases.

When did you join NZ Police?

I joined in 1996 and have never regretted it.

What are your hobbies and interests?

Climbing, running, soccer, skiing – love all that. Also love summer, art, singing, reading, good food, and movies.

Why did you become a cop?

I've always wanted to become a Detective – from the age of about 5 years. I was always running around the neighbourhood spying on people, building huts, having monkey apple fights – a real tomboy. Then, from the age of 10, I was into the Detective side of things – codes, making detective gear, more spying, and I love the Famous Five and Secret Seven books. I even wrote a story about a Detective Dobb. I then completed university, a maths degree of all things, but all I wanted to do was become a police officer and a Detective.

I wanted to help people, particularly kids, and I've always enjoyed the psychological nature of policing.

Advice to other women who are thinking about becoming a cop?

Do it. It's the best job you’ll ever do and the most fantastic work environment. It's like having another family and the rewards are immeasurable. You'll love it. I've loved it for 20 years.

 

Sue