Community work motivates Rodney’s iwi liaison officer

Rodney Police have appointed their first iwi liaison officer. She is Constable Vivian Clark who started work last month.

Sgt Mark Smith, who oversees the position, says the new role will strengthen the already good relationship between Rodney Police and iwi, and part of Constable Clark’s duties will be to develop that relationship.

This will also involve advising Police on Maori processes and protocol, a responsibility that was previously shared among relevant police officers in the region.

Vivian was based at Waitakere Police for nine years, working in the intelligence unit and prior to that, on front line duties and general police work.

She says the community side of policing has always been a strong focus for her.

“I enjoy working with people, problem-solving and being an ear for people who need someone to talk to,” Vivian says.

She has been working closely with iwi liaison officers from the North Shore and Waitakere, as well as local kaumatua, and says supporting the Police family violence team, assisting with youth issues and being a conduit between Police and the families of victims of crime will be part of her role.

“I also hope to serve as a role model for young women who may be interested in working in the Police, in social work or with youth.”

Vivian is based at the Orewa Community Constable’s office, in Tamariki Plaza, but can be contacted through any Rodney police station.