Police station back after long absence

Wainuiomata’s police station will be reopened after nearly a decade, and will be led by a local, newly appointed sergeant.

Patrick (Pat) Tangipo has been a resident of the Hutt Valley suburb for 17 years and is probably better known for his role as a kids’ sports coach, a father of three and a rugby player at the local club.

The police officer of nine years has worked in the public safety team in Te Awa Kairangi/Hutt Valley, before recently being promoted to sergeant.

He is tasked with leading a team of two constables and two youth aid officers, based permanently at the Fitzherbert Rd station.

Tangipo is aware of the challenges facing his suburb, which has a young population, and is determined to reverse the statistics which show an overrepresentation of Māori as both offenders and victims.

‘‘This position is a privilege and an opportunity to change the script on that,’’ he said.

‘‘I’ve always wanted to come back, making Wainui a safer place to live for the community and my own children is my mantra.’’

Hutt Valley area commander Inspector Dion Bennett said the ‘‘relaunching of the new era of Wainuiomata’’ had been in the works for 14 months.

‘‘Pat is the right person to do that,’’ Bennett said. ‘‘He understands the community and the current local issues.’’

More than $200,000 has been invested in a refurbishment of the station, which closed in 2013.

The station will also become an office for Māori wardens and the local community patrol, acting as a community hub.

Ultimately, Bennett hopes the front counter will be reopened.

Last year, a community meeting was held in response to growing concerns about the rise of youth crime and gang violence, and police visibility in the area.