The courage shown by three Police dog handlers who arrested an armed suspect in Hamilton on Monday is something we can all be proud of.

Earlier today, I visited the officer who was shot and wounded during this incident to personally thank and congratulate him for his bravery and quick thinking. I also met the two other dog handlers who were involved in the arrest.

They are a great example of dedicated Police officers who put the safety of the community before themselves.

I was pleased to see that the injured officer is in good spirits and looking forward to returning to work. He was released from hospital late on Monday, and should be back with us soon. I wish him and his family all the best.

Thanks to the heroic actions of these three officers, a volatile and extremely dangerous incident was brought to an end. The suspect had already put the lives of members of the public at risk and had allegedly presented a firearm at another Police officer the day before.

Our ability to respond quickly and decisively to situations like this enhances the already very high levels of trust and confidence people have in Police. The reported comments of members of the public who witnessed the arrest left no doubt that they were in awe of the courage and professionalism on display.

My thanks and congratulations to all the other staff who assisted in this operation.

Recognition for our commitment to diversity

On Monday, Police had the great honour of receiving the Human Rights Commission's 2014 NZ Diversity Action Award.

This award was made at the New Zealand Diversity Forum in Christchurch and recognises the work we have done over the past ten years to promote and value diversity. It was accepted by Deputy Chief Executive Māori, Superintendent Wally Haumaha.

As I mentioned last week, I spoke at the opening session of the forum and affirmed Police's commitment to valuing diversity and ensuring we truly represent all the communities we serve.

This award confirms that Police is playing a key role in promoting diversity and protecting human rights.

New Zealand Police is believed to be the first police service in the world to receive such an award, so we can all be immensely proud of this achievement.

Congratulations also to Senior Sergeant Alison Brand of Counties Manukau, who has won a prestigious award from the Australasian Council of Women and Policing.

Alison, who is a case management manager, won the Most Outstanding Female Administrator at an award ceremony in Queensland this week.

The award recognises her innovative leadership and experience and is great recognition of the leadership roles women are playing in New Zealand Police.

Helping the neighbours

Best wishes on behalf of all Police to the 90 staff who are in Apia to support Samoa Police during the Small Islands Developing States Conference that starts tomorrow.

New Zealand Police sent this contingent following a formal request from the Government of Samoa. It is being headed by Inspector Peter Gibson and will provide advice, support and additional capacity to Samoan Police.

As well as assisting a fellow member of the Pacific Island Chiefs of Police grouping, deployments like this are great opportunities for our staff to experience policing in a new environment and to develop skills and relationships with Police in other jurisdictions.

Most of the staff going have Samoan heritage, highlighting our close links with Samoa.

The conference runs till September 4 and we wish the contingent a safe and successful deployment.

Until next week, stay safe.

Source: New Zealand Police.