Delegates call for stronger data collection

The Police Association annual conference has endorsed a push for more systematic workforce data collection, backing a motion from the Counties Manukau committee aimed at strengthening the association’s evidence-based advocacy on behalf of members. 

The motion at October’s conference called for the regular collection of Police workforce data, including information on recruitment, retention, workforce demographics, transfers, overtime, assaults on staff and health and safety issues. 

Speaking in support of the motion, Antony Vannini said access to consistent and reliable data was critical to understanding pressures facing districts and identifying emerging issues before they become entrenched. 

Headline staff numbers alone did not tell the full story, he said, arguing that districts also needed sufficient experienced staff, sergeants and field training officers to train and support newer employees, an issue he said Counties Manukau knew only too well.

Antony also pointed to difficulties obtaining consistent information on resource allocation targets (RAT) and staffing levels from different sources, arguing better data would help the association track workforce trends and hold Police accountable on recruitment, retention and resourcing issues. 

President Steve Watt said the association was already making increasing use of research and workforce information to support bargaining, advocacy and policy work, and the motion aligned with that approach. 

“To advocate effectively for members, we know we need robust evidence and that was a real focus for us in this year’s pay talks. Good data helps us identify trends, test assumptions and make a stronger case when we’re pushing for change on behalf of members,” he said. 

He also noted the recent approval to hire a permanent policy research analyst after the successful production of the association’s Workforce Report. 

Delegates carried the motion. 

Push for employer-funded operational boots

The Police Association annual conference has backed a motion seeking wider access to employer-funded operational boots for staff required to undertake operational policing duties. 

The Western Bay of Plenty Committee motion calls on Police to provide approved operational work boots, at employer expense, to employees who may reasonably be required to undertake operational duties in uniform, including Criminal Investigation Branch staff and other plainclothes employees.

It also seeks to ensure any entitlement remains separate from civilian clothing allowances. 

Presenting the remit, James Renwick said the issue had been raised by detectives and other staff expected to maintain operational capability while not always having access to the same employer-funded footwear as their frontline colleagues do. 

Delegates supporting the motion argued that staff performing the same operational duties should have access to the same equipment and protections, regardless of their workgroup or whether they generally worked in uniform or plain clothes. 

The association advised conference that collective agreement provisions distinguish between clothing allowances and safety equipment supplied by Police. It also said that safety footwear was generally regarded as personal protective equipment, with responsibility for providing PPE resting with Police. 

Steve said the motion rightly highlighted a practical issue affecting staff expected to be operationally ready when called upon.

“If employees are expected to undertake the same operational duties, it’s reasonable to ask whether they should have access to the same operational equipment and protections. This motion gives the association a clear mandate to continue that conversation with Police,” he said.

The issue may also benefit from a new agreed-matters provision secured through this year’s constabulary pay bargaining. Under the clause, Police must consult with the union on substantive changes to uniform and equipment.

The association said that requirement provided a formal avenue to raise concerns and advocate for members on significant equipment issues, including operational footwear. 

Delegates carried the motion. 

Drone debate highlights tech opportunities

Delegates have used the Police Association annual conference to explore the growing role of drone technology in policing, despite a motion calling for dedicated fulltime drone teams not gaining sufficient support. 

The Waitākere Committee motion sought the establishment of dedicated fulltime remotely piloted aircraft systems (RPAs) teams responsible for deployment, training and capability development across Police. 

Supporters argued drones are becoming an increasingly valuable operational tool, assisting with search and rescue operations, missing person investigations, tactical incidents, scene examination and member safety. They said dedicated teams would help maximise the benefits of Police's investment in the technology while ensuring specialist expertise was maintained. 

The association acknowledged the growing importance of drone technology and supported ongoing investment in emerging policing tools, but said decisions on capability models, staffing structures and deployment arrangements ultimately sat with Police. 

Speaking during the discussion, national secretary Erin Polaczuk said the debate itself was valuable because it encouraged the association to consider how new technologies may shape policing in the future. 

“We need to keep monitoring what’s happening internationally and thinking about how emerging technologies could support policing in New Zealand. Drones are already proving their value in many situations, and it’s important that we understand the opportunities and challenges they present for our members,” she said. 

While delegates ultimately voted against the motion, the discussion highlighted strong interest in the future role of technology, innovation and specialist capabilities within policing.