Northland Bolsters Police Force Amid 'Unprecedented' Crime Surge

In response to a sharp increase in violent crime and a significant police staffing shortage, Northland has deployed over 90 additional officers to bolster its regional police force. The initiative, known as Operation Tai Pari, has been in place for three months and aims to address the 'unprecedented' level of criminal activity that has overwhelmed local police departments in towns such as Kaikohe, Kaitāia, Kerikeri, Kawakawa, and Moerewa.

Crime Surge and Staffing Crisis

Northland police have been grappling with an alarming rise in violent crime, including nine alleged homicides in a four-month period — more than all the homicides recorded in the region in 2024. Superintendent Matt Srhoj, head of Northland police, described the situation as 'unprecedented,' particularly highlighting a spike in homicides over a three-week period in February and March.

Compounding the issue is a staffing deficit of 25 officers, a significant reduction from a 50-officer shortage 18 months ago. Srhoj emphasized that the influx of additional officers is a temporary measure, with 30 officers currently deployed from as far as Southland for five-week rotations. These officers are being utilized in front-line policing, investigative roles, and road policing, where the demand is highest.

Community Response and Concerns

Local community leaders have welcomed the increased police presence but raised concerns about the long-term sustainability of the strategy. Roddy Hapati Pihema, a representative on the Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Community Board, praised the move but warned that officers from outside the region may not fully understand the dynamics of rural life in Northland. He also highlighted the urgent need for a broader societal approach to crime prevention, emphasizing that police alone cannot resolve the issue.

John Vujcich, a representative on the Far North District Council, echoed these sentiments, acknowledging the importance of addressing the homicide cases but also stressing the need for police to be more visible on the ground to deter crimes such as street racing and drug dealing.

Local Residents' Experiences

A local man from Kaikohe, who wished to remain anonymous, shared his surprise at seeing unfamiliar faces at a recent traffic checkpoint — a stark contrast to the usual local officers. He expressed hope that the increased police presence would help curb the recent wave of lawlessness, including reckless motorbike activity and speeding cars.

Recruitment Efforts and Future Plans

Despite the challenges, Northland police have made progress in recruiting new officers, particularly in Whangārei. Srhoj noted that more Northlanders are returning to the region after completing police college, a trend that is expected to continue. The opening of a new police college campus in Auckland is also seen as a potential catalyst for increasing the number of local recruits.

Srhoj reiterated that the current measure of bringing in officers from across the country is a short-term strategy and that the long-term solution lies in bolstering recruitment and retention efforts within Northland itself.

Recent Homicides and Ongoing Investigations

Police have made arrests in all nine homicide cases that occurred between late January and May, with no new homicides reported since May 21. The victims include both adults and children, with two cases involving three-year-olds. The cases are currently being processed through the courts, with some expected to be sentenced in the coming months.

As Northland continues to grapple with this crisis, the community is left waiting for a comprehensive and sustainable solution that addresses both the immediate demand for police presence and the deeper social issues that contribute to the region’s alarming crime rates.