He is recognised for his service to NZ Police, including as a member and leader of the Hawke's Bay Armed Offenders Squad.

Two police veterans have received New Year Honours for their services to New Zealand Police.

An increase in the number of mental health cases police are dealing with in the South could just be because people are calling for help more.

More than 56,346 prohibited and unlawful firearms were removed from circulation in the buy-back and amnesty.

Chris Cahill said the bill showed a recognition "that the risks continue to grow, and in some way have spread beyond police" to other first responders.

Police officers arrested the man after he allegedly aimed a firearm at police at the sports ground.