The University of Otago's new proctor says he is looking forward to swapping some of the negative aspects of the police force for the opportunity to "guide'' young people.
The university appointed former Dunedin police officer Dave Scott as its new proctor in April.
After 24 years in the police force, Mr Scott said he was enjoying his new role.
"I think a lot of the work in the police can be negative.
"You're dealing with family violence, death, car crashes.''
"In this role there is a huge opportunity to help, guide students along and be their pseudo-parents.''
After witnessing student behaviour in his role as the police forward commander at the annual Hyde St party from 2012-16, he believed things were improving.
He said 2012 was "the failed year. The year that brought us negative attention''.
"But I genuinely believe that we are turning in the right direction for students to start policing themselves.''
While the event "was not ideal'' he did not believe opposing student traditions was productive.
"Over time I hope we can move it to where it is not just about drinking beer.''
The Castle Street balcony collapse in March highlighted the growing problem of pop-up parties, he said.
"Part of my job will be encouraging young people to make good decisions to help prevent these things from happening.''
He was also looking forward to providing constructive punishments for the students he disciplined.
"I think the opportunity for that was certainly there within the police, too.
"There was room to move within the law.
"It is about finding value in the punishment for the person.''
As well as monitoring student behaviour on and off campus, he will manage five Campus Watch leaders, who have an additional staff of 40 people.
Mr Scott replaced Dave Miller, who resigned after only four months in the job.
The new proctor said the role was sold to him as a "once in a lifetime opportunity''.
"Historically it has been a job held for a long time.
"I know I will get good job satisfaction out of it and I am looking forward to working with Campus Watch and the university.''
