Not only did it unveil a new hybrid patrol car, but certificates of commendation were also presented to five volunteers - and a patroller was awarded for his 20 years of service.
The celebration took place at the Spreydon Tennis Club and was well attended by the community, as well as representatives from the police.
This included the patrol’s operations manager, Cashmere ward Christchurch city councillor Tim Scandrett, Spreydon-Cashmere Community Board chairwoman Karolyn Potter, and Central-Linwood Heathcote chairwoman Alexandra Davids.
Patrol leader Ken Bye noted the importance of the occasion by recognising the commitment of its members to serving the community, especially of Don Dalrymple, 85, and his 20-year dedication.
“He was delighted to get that recognition, he really is one of our most committed patrollers,” said Bye.
He said Dalrymple is one of the longest-serving patrollers in Christchurch and was never “off duty,” and still patrolled at least twice a month.
The 85-year-old is also a base radio operator for the city patrols, keeping in contact to ensure that they remain safe.
“Last year he made the papers for helping stop a burglar. He heard an alarm going, ran across the road and physically knocked the guy over as he was taking off,” he said.
“That’s just typical Don. We’re really proud of him, he’s one of those guys who always goes the extra mile.”
The unveiling of the Toyota Rav 4 hybrid car was an “exciting” new addition, which was the first patrol car of its kind in the South Island.
It was also the first in the country to display the te reo Māori translation of CPNZ and its purpose to celebrate their diverse patrol.
“The inclusion of ‘Ngā manu taiko ō Aotearoa’ on the car reflects the diversity of the patrol and the importance of the tangata whenua in the community it serves,” said Mr Bye.
“We thought it was really neat because we can do our job with a vehicle that’s environmentally appropriate.”
The Christchurch South Community Patrol has been operating for 26 years and now has more than 50 patrollers ranging from 19-years-old to 80 and above.
With a purpose to act as the “eyes and ears” of the police within the community, Mr Bye believed the city’s patrols were important, now more than ever.
“The emergency services overall are under pressure, so having those extra eyes and ears out there helps. It’s often spotting the little things that might be out of place, where people won’t call 111,” he said
“It also helps police join the dots by providing information that might lead to the arrest of a significant offender.”
