From today, Kiwis can call 105 for issues that are not emergencies, but still want to report them to police.
For example, if someone discovers their car is missing, they would be encouraged to call 105 instead of 111.
Likewise, if someone finds a broken window, or some new graffiti, from now on they should call 105.
The 111 number will still be in service - but police are asking for it to be reserved for instances where there is immediate danger.
The new number aims to take the pressure off the 111 phone number and to help provide better services for the public.
“More than 60 years on from the first 111 call, the launch of 105 today is a milestone for New Zealand Police, offering a new way for people to connect with us,” Commissioner of Police Mike Bush said today.
“The 105 number and our online platform - 105.police.govt.nz - will make it easier for the public to engage with us for non-emergency help, advice and support.”
Police receive more than 2 million calls a year, according to Police Minister Stuart Nash.
Almost 900,000 calls are made to the 111 service. There are around 1.2 million non-emergency calls to other police numbers.
"Just 20 percent of 111 calls result in an emergency response, known as priority one," Nash said. Another 20% are priority two.
• The non-emergency number would be answered 24/7 by highly trained police staff and is free to call from all landline and mobile numbers.
