As communities gathered to celebrate the festival of Eid, police were there and talking to those interested in a career in blue.

Sergeant John Zhu and Senior Sergeants Raj Bhullar and Phil Pithyou joined Ethnic Patrol members Tina and Faysal at an event at Sky Stadium, Wellington, on 1 April - the first day of Eid.

From the engagement they enjoyed with the multi-cultural attendees, they signed up four people interested in a Police career, with a further 13 wanting to know more about the Ethnic Patrol.

Another visitor to the stall was Police Minister Mark Mitchell, who shared some supportive words with the team.

On the same day, Police staff were engaging with Auckland's Muslim communities at a very well attended celebration at Eden Park.

"The celebration went wonderfully, with a large turnout enjoying the festivities," says Constable Gulab Singh, Ethnic Peoples Community Relations Officer.

"A variety of food stalls added to this community event, with a lot of arrangements for children including rides, face painting and more."

The festival of Eid marks the end of the Muslim holy month of Ramadan. Police staff were also busy among our communities during Ramadan, with many from Wellington District and Police National Headquarters enjoying a fast-breaking Iftar meal at Kilbirnie Mosque.

The event was marked by the warmth and kindness of the Muslim community who "created a truly welcoming and enriching experience for all who attended," says Rabia Almbaid, Senior Partnerships Advisor - Ethnic.

"The opportunity for Police staff to attend during this sacred time, learn more about Ramadan and connect over a beautiful meal was deeply meaningful. Events like these strengthen our bonds and foster greater cultural and religious understanding."

Speakers from the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ) and the International Muslim Association of New Zealand (IMAN) spoke of the strength of Police's relationship with their communities.

There was praise for the commitment of successive leadership teams at both FIANZ and Police to build an example of a world-class relationship under the auspices of the MoU between the organisations.

Rabia, who spoke at the event on behalf of the Police group and was involved in planning the event for the third consecutive year, encouraged workgroups to send new staff each year to foster fresh perspectives and stronger engagement.

He also invited community members and whānau to consider a career in policing, highlighting the diverse opportunities available in both constabulary and non-constabulary roles, each contributing to the safety and wellbeing of all New Zealanders.

“I spoke about our commitment to collaborating with community organisations and how special celebrations like this provide a platform to engage, connect and support Police’s goal of recruiting 500 new officers,” he says.

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