In the wake of last week's release of the latest crime statistics there has been a series of encouraging stories in the Rotorua Daily Post. The crime rate in Rotorua has been in decline for a few years now so continuing the downward pressure becomes incrementally harder to achieve; which is one reason why the latest results are particularly good news.
Nevertheless, there is always some cynicism about statistics and people are inclined to be particularly suspicious about any suggestion that crime is on the decline. Others will assert that crime statistics only provide one part of the picture and are not the best measure of police performance. I agree.
When Rotorua people are asked about community priorities, a "safe and caring" community is nearly always at the top of the list.
The message I take from that is Rotorua people not only want the police to make them feel safe, they want to know that we care. Which is why I found the comments made by a number of people about the Rotorua police in the stories run by the Rotorua Daily Post last week so heartwarming. When people were asked for their view on the drop in the crime rate, a clear theme in the responses was a very positive endorsement of the passion and commitment of Rotorua police officers.
This recognition of the commitment of Rotorua police officers is a real encouragement. Policing a community is a hard, difficult job - and often a thankless one. Anyone who works in a "people" business will tell you that working in it is a challenge and a reward.
Rotorua police officers understand with great clarity that every day they have opportunities to make a difference for others. That "difference" often hinges on how well we engage with people; listen to what others are saying, demonstrate empathy and work in a constructive way. While it all sounds straightforward and easy, working through that process always has its challenges. Our operating environment is characterised by conflict and ambiguity.
Frequently we deal with people in a very emotional state, some violent and obstructive.
It is through those troubled waters that we endeavour to safely navigate a path to a point of safety and calm. Our ongoing commitment to you is that we will always do our very best to achieve that outcome.
• Inspector Bruce Horne is the Rotorua police Area Commander.