"Many of the victims she has supported in the last year or so have come from the most marginalised groups in our community and have required a very high level of support.
Detective Murphy has shown quite extraordinary levels of patience, tenacity and compassion in caring for these people," he said.
One of the victims Ms Murphy supported recently wrote to Mr Horne, expressing her gratitude.
"Over the last year, Detective Murphy's support has been exceptional. She has been our one constant source of assurance through this very difficult time. She was extremely thorough in her investigation ... always maintaining a combination of sharp professionalism and compassion when dealing with all of us," the victim wrote.
"Detective Murphy and the Rotorua police have given us faith in the New Zealand justice system, something we did not have before ... We are truly blessed to have come from a district where the police force is so compassionate and understanding to victims like ourselves and their families."
Ms Murphy said the award was a surprise and an honour.
"I'd like to acknowledge the support of my family and the people I work with every day. The professionalism and approachability of my work colleagues is fantastic."
Ms Murphy has been with Rotorua police for about 14 years. She said she couldn't imagine doing anything else.
"I love my job, there's such variety to the role. Every day you're dealing with something different and you have a chance to make a difference to people's lives."