The media landscape has changed significantly over time with not only the emergence of social media channels but also the increasing number of ethnic specific media outlets such as Indian Newslink and the important role that they play.
These new channels have provided more direct avenues to speak directly with ethnic communities so I thank and congratulate Indian Newslink for its service on the publication’s 15th Anniversary.
Communication remains one of the most important tools a Police officer has at their disposal to resolve a situation they attend.
It is also a tool that the New Zealand Police as an organisation uses to inform and engage with the communities. Over time, the methods of communication have advanced and today many options exist.
The use of media to disseminate a message continues to be a popular and effective choice. The public continues to be reached by the Police through the traditional channels of radio, newspaper and television as well as the various social media sites, which are accessed by many people for news.
Modified Approach
Like other organisations, the New Zealand Police has modified how, when, and what media tools are used to communicate to the public.
These changes have come due to the development of new technologies and an increased public demand for information about what we do. The role of police officers as first responders to incidents also results in the organisation and the people being highly visible and creates an increased level of interest with the public.
As the New Zealand Police is a government organisation, there is increased accountability to ensure accessibility and transparency to information.
New methods to communicate with the public include publishing press releases and statements through our website and the establishment of many New Zealand Police Twitter, Facebook and Instagram accounts.
There has also been an increase in the number of staff participating in media interviews and an increase in Police participation in reality television shows.
Any opportunity, which allows the public to gain an insight into the organisation and the incidents staff attend creates a greater understanding of policing and adds to building greater trust and confidence in Police.
Building relationships
Police are contacted on a daily basis by media outlets to provide comment, clarification or confirmation on a variety of issues. We recognise that building and maintaining a successful working relationship with media outlets and reporters is essential.
Staff regularly provide information as soon as possible to media and to the public through online channels to assist in the reporting incidents.
Additional details of incidents are often provided via media releases published on the Police website. Publication of information leads to the Police being featured in a news item on TV, in your daily paper or in a radio interview.
Police are usually available to media in order to add context to a situation by providing a response through statements or interviews. Being responsive provides the chance to deliver correct information and a message of reassurance to the community in relation to an event or investigation.
Public information
Major engagement with media frequently occurs when Police require assistance from the public. Members of the public often hold key pieces of information that will often assist to solve a crime or find a missing person. The ability to publish a request for information through a range of media outlets often delivers a quick response and can advance investigations. This is an invaluable outcome and can aid Police in delivering a positive result for victims and their families.
Increasing safety
In addition, Police have the important responsibility to support and ensure that everyone in every community feels safe and is safe. Media interest and publication of stories allows the Police to deliver key messages encouraging the reporting of crime and prevention first messages such as improved security measures, driving at safe speeds and taking care of each other.
The relationship between the public, communities, families and the Police is enhanced when we deliver information that provides reassurance about the service that we provide. Media is an essential partner in delivering that reassurance and assisting the positive relationship that exists between the public and Police.
Ko nga pirihimana te iwi whänui me te iwi whänui o nga pirihimana.
The police are the public and the public are the police.
Mike Bush is Commissioner of the New Zealand Police based in the Police Headquarters in Wellington. Indian Newslink works closely with officials in various Police Districts in promoting safety at home, office and in public places and providing information on incidents and developments.
