Intercultural awareness training for New Zealand Police

Contact: Colleen Ward

Overview

The 5-day Intercultural Awareness Course was developed for the New Zealand Police to prepare them to work effectively with and within Māori, Pacific and ethnic communities.

Approach

A pilot version of the course was held at the Royal New Zealand Police College in April 2013. The course included:

• Classroom instruction and discussion on cultural awareness and protocols
• Activities, simulations and practical exercises which practice cultural learning
• Opportunities for local communities to host the Police at their marae, church and mosque to encourage interaction and understanding from both parties.

Outcome

An evaluation of the pilot course showed the course effectively increased participants’ knowledge of cultural values and confidence interacting with diverse cultural groups.

The course has now been modularised and will be taught across New Zealand Police districts.