Fo Guang Shan Invitied to New Police Commissioner’s National Welcoming Ceremony

Having served New Zealand Police for over 42 years, Police Commissioner Peter Marshall completed his tour of duty, thus officially passed the position to Vice-Commissioner Mike Bush on 3rd April.
Since joining the force in 1978, Mike Bush has always felt that his position is for serving the public, this conviction has not dampened with time. He praised ex-Commissioner Marshall for his contribution to society by reducing crime and traffic fatalities during his period of service. Commissioner Bush further stated that he will lead the team to always be aware of the police force’s core values, were involve serving the public with justice, respect and responsibility.

On 27th June, a delegation from Fo Guang Shan including Venerable Abbess Manshin, Venerable Rulian and over 10 BLIA Committee Members were invited to the Orakei Marae to attend the “New Commissioner’s Welcoming Ceremony”. Other Special guests included District Assistant Commissioner Allan Boreham, Maori Deputy Chief Executive Wallace Haumaha, Ethnic Strategy Advisor Inspector Rakesh Naidoo and various other Officers and Maori Elders, in total over 150 people in attendance.

The ceremony kicked off with Kapa Haka performances, which were followed by speeches from the Maori Elder, Assistant Commissioner Boreham, Ex-Race Relations Conciliator Gregory Fortuin, New Zealand Multicultural Affairs Officers and various Police Officers praising Commissioner Bush’s past achievements and confidence in his future endeavours to maintain social harmony. The speech also included encouragement toward the general public to co-operate and support the police to achieve social unity, respect and equality for all ethnic groups.

This was followed by a speech from the Commissioner confirmed that a police officer is the symbol of justice. So they play a very important social role of protecting the public. He emphasised that society is like a large machinery that can only operate when all its components are working. Everyone all plays an important role that forms unified entity, which can only accomplish things from taking individual responsibilities. He also thanked the continued support of the police force as well as faith toward their determination and efforts on serving the public.

The Ceremony joyfully concluded with gifts of Maori patterned staff and hanging ornament to the new Commissioner.