About the role

As a Police Officer, you’ll begin a career unlike any typical graduate role—one where every day brings new challenges, continuous learning, and the chance to make a genuine impact on people’s lives. You’ll work alongside supportive, committed colleagues who share your drive to keep New Zealanders safe and build strong, trusted relationships within our communities.

In this role, you’ll be far more than a law enforcer. You’ll be a problem solver, a community connector, and often the person people rely on during their toughest moments. From preventing harm and responding to incidents, to investigating offences and supporting victims with empathy, you’ll grow personally and professionally in ways few other careers can offer.

Your key responsibilities will include:

· Responding to incidents and maintaining public order

· Preventing and detecting crime through frontline policing

· Investigating offences and collecting evidence

· Building positive relationships with diverse communities

· Mediating disputes and providing safety advice

Every day, you’ll sharpen your instincts, develop a deep understanding of human behaviour, and expand your knowledge of the law. You’ll build transferable skills in communication, decision‑making, resilience, and leadership—all while experiencing the satisfaction of work that truly matters.

You’ll also be part of something bigger: a team dedicated to making Aotearoa safer for everyone.

Skills & Experience

To be eligible you must:

• Be at least 17 years old to apply (18 when starting Police College)

• Be a New Zealand or Australian citizen, or hold NZ Residency

• Be proficient in English (speaking, reading, writing, and listening)

• Be physically fit with good eyesight

• Hold at least a restricted NZ driver licence

You’ll also need to:

· Disclose any criminal or traffic convictions

· Provide police clearance from any country you’ve lived/worked in for more than 3+ months

· Provide at least 5 years of your medical history including any information whilst residing overseas.

· Familiarise yourself with all the steps of the Recruitment Process

We’re looking for applicants who are ready to meet the Physical Appraisal Test and complete online assessments. Learn more about eligibility and the recruitment journey at newcops.govt.nz

Salary & Benefits

We offer job security and a range of great perks including flexible rostering, on the job training and professional development.

Competitive Remuneration Package:

• Training salary: $63,668 total package during 20-week Police College

• Starting salary: $86,597 Upon graduation (first year officer)

• Salary progression as you advance through ranks

Work-life Balance:

• Flexible rostered hours with more time off than most careers

• Three shift rotation: Morning: 6:30am – 3:30pm, Afternoon: 1:30pm – 11:30pm, Night: 10:30pm – 6:30am.

Professional Development:

• 20 weeks paid training at Royal NZ Police College

• Two-year on-the-job development programme

• Access to over 30 specialist career pathways

• Continuous learning and advancement opportunities

Stay fit and active:

• The role keeps both mind and body engaged and challenged

• Access to gym facilities in most police districts

• Physical fitness encouraged and supported as part of the job

Make a real difference every day:

• Protect and serve communities across Aotearoa

• Build meaningful relationships with diverse people and cultures

• Experience the satisfaction of helping people when they need it most

About us

New Zealand Police is dedicated to keeping communities safe and preventing harm. We work in partnership with communities, iwi, government agencies, and businesses across Aotearoa to maintain public safety and uphold the law with courage and compassion.

Our people are united by shared values of loyalty, commitment, integrity, and fairness. As part of our team, you'll experience a strong sense of belonging and make lasting friendships with colleagues who share your dedication to serving others.

How to apply

If you’re still deciding on a career, New Zealand Police opens the door to opportunities you might not even know exist. Ready to explore what’s possible? Click apply.

Training salary: $63,668 total package during 20-week Police College Starting salary: $86,597 Upon graduation

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