Rāhina, 15 Whiringa-ā-nuku, 2007

A group of Māori Wardens have completed a new training module, the first part of a Te Puni Kōkiri-led initiative to provide systematic training opportunities for Wardens.

Earlier this year the Government announced new funding for a plan to better support the work of Wardens that includes new vehicles, radio equipment, suitable safety clothing, and training opportunities.

Today a group of 24 Māori Wardens from Auckland, Hastings, Northland, Rotorua and Waikato gathered at the Police College in Porirua for a specially developed intensive three-day training course.

“Māori Wardens play a hugely valuable role in our communities,” says Te Puni Kōkiri Chief Executive Leith Comer.

“Their highly visible presence on our streets means Māori Wardens are often the first on the scene of escalating trouble. The respect and mana they carry means their informal intervention can defuse situations before they become more serious.

“This new project is about enhancing the support and resources available to Māori Wardens to bolster the work they do.”

Mr Comer says providing additional support for the work of the Wardens is central to the plan. Te Puni Kōkiri is facilitating this project with the support of an expert Advisory Group, which includes members of the New Zealand Māori Council and the Māori Wardens’ Association.

“The New Zealand Police will be providing some of training and development opportunities to bolster the work of Māori Wardens. Police have a long association with Wardens. Police recognise the valuable role they play in the communities and streets of New Zealand, especially with young people.

“Paid co-ordinator positions are also being established in each of the six regions and a contestable funding pool is also being established for local initiatives – particularly those that support the work of the Māori Wardens with ‘youth at risk’,” says Mr Comer.