Police station closure denied

Inspector Wendy Robilliard

Northland police are quashing rumours Kohukohu police station is closing for good.

Sole Constable Jonathan Maoate has taken up a new position in Kawhia, after eight years in North Hokianga. He is due to start his new job on June 22.

The departure of Mr Maoate had sparked rumours the station was closing permanently. While criticising cuts to police funding in the latest Budget, Northland MP Winston Peters said North Hokianga was "not exactly holding its breath" waiting for a new constable.

But the district's top cop has told the Advocate recruitment is under way for a new Kohukohu officer.

Far North area commander Inspector Wendy Robilliard said the position had been advertised and, once applications had been received, police would go through the appointment process.

"We're working on a plan to cover the area while we go through this process. We have no intention of closing down the station," she said.

The Kohukohu police house will be renovated before a new officer moves in. It is understood the police house, built about 15 years ago, has serious problems with damp.

Mr Maoate won respect for his work ethic and ability to get on with most people in his patch.

Retired Kohukohu fire chief Bill Thomson said the brigade worked regularly with Mr Maoate at serious crashes and fires, and found him to be very competent.

Other residents were impressed by his work ethic and efforts to get to know the locals, including by introducing himself, house by house and street by street, when he started the job eight years ago.

Mr Maoate said he was moving for the benefit of his family. His six children are aged 5-19.

"I love the area, it saddens me to go. It's the people that make it such a special place," he said.

While Kohukohu station is unmanned the area will be served by Rawene, Kaitaia or Kaikohe police.