(Photo supplied by National Partnerships Manager Ethnic Superintendent Rakesh Naidoo)
Venkat Raman
Auckland, June 29, 2025
The recent appointment of Superintendent Sundip (Sunny) Patel as the District Commander for Auckland City District marks a significant and historic moment for policing in New Zealand.
This pivotal role, overseeing the policing operations at the heart of the nation’s largest city, now rests in the hands of a leader whose journey embodies dedication, diverse experience, and a deep understanding of community.
Superintendent Patel is one of only two individuals of Indian origin to hold the rank of Superintendent within the New Zealand Police (the other being National Partnerships Manager Ethnic, Rakesh Nadioo, based in Wellington), underscoring the groundbreaking nature of this achievement. His elevation to District Commander is not merely a personal triumph but a powerful symbol of progress and inclusivity within the Service, reflecting the changing face of New Zealand itself.
Speaking at a special meeting held at the Mahatma Gandhi Centre in Auckland on June 18, 2025 (Relieving), Deputy Commissioner of Police (Northern Districts) Jill Rogers paid tributes to District Commander Patel, saying that his promotion was a tribute to his competence and hard work.
The platform was also shared by other speakers, each offering their unique perspectives on the importance of this appointment. Representatives from local iwi spoke of the deepening partnership between Māori and the Police, expressing their optimism for continued collaboration under Sunny’s leadership. Leaders from Pacific Island communities echoed these sentiments, emphasising the positive impact of having a commander who understands the nuances of multicultural engagement.
Speakers from various South Asian associations articulated the immense pride felt within their communities, viewing Superintendent Patel’s achievement as an inspiring example of what can be accomplished through hard work and dedication.
Mr Patel said that he was privileged to work for the New Zealand Police and pledged to protect the promote the concept of ‘Safer Policing, Safer Communities.’
“I am very proud of my team, and with their high level of professionalism and commitment, I am confident that we will successfully meet the challenges that are ahead. We are committed to serving our communities and making them safer,” he said.
An impressive lineage
Born in Leicester, United Kingdom, Sunny Patel’s upbringing was shaped by the migratory journeys of his parents, who arrived in the UK from Kenya and Uganda. This background, along with his two elder sisters, provided him with an early appreciation for diverse cultures and the complexities of adapting to new environments. His policing career began in 1998 with the London Metropolitan Police, where he spent a formative period working predominantly on the frontline and in community policing roles. This foundational experience honed his skills in direct engagement, problem-solving, and building trust at the grassroots level, culminating in his promotion to Sergeant.
In 2007, Sunny decided to bring his expertise to New Zealand, joining the New Zealand Police after completing a UK conversion course. Since then, his career in Aotearoa has been characterised by a broad range of operational and strategic roles across some of the country’s most diverse and dynamic police districts. He has served in Waitematā, Auckland, and Counties Manukau, gaining invaluable insights into the unique policing challenges and opportunities presented by both urban centres and their surrounding communities. His leadership capabilities have also seen him relieve as a District Commander in the Bay of Plenty, Northland, and on previous occasions within Auckland, demonstrating his capacity to lead at the highest level across different geographical and operational contexts. His tenure as the Director of Evidence-based Policing (EBP) in Wellington provided him with a crucial understanding of the strategic policy and development aspects of police work.
Devoted to family
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Sunny Patel is a devoted family man. He has been married to Ravina for 23 years, and together they are proud parents to two daughters, Aaliyah, 17, and Sia, 15, both of whom attend Westlake Girls High School. This personal dimension provides him with a grounded perspective, ensuring his leadership remains connected to the everyday realities and concerns of families within the community he serves.
A keen sportsman, he played Football and Cricket for most of his life. This passion has seamlessly transitioned into coaching, as he is now a qualified Level Two New Zealand Cricket Coach, dedicating his time to nurturing young talent. When time permits, he also enjoys a round of Golf and maintains a rigorous personal fitness regimen, training most mornings in the gym before work. These pursuits highlight his discipline, teamwork ethic, and ability to balance demanding professional responsibilities with a healthy and engaging personal life.
