Ex-policeman takes RSA role

The new manager of the Warkworth RSA, Mike Wharepouri, sees some similarities between his new role and the 18 years he served as a police officer.

“Policing is about being there when the community needs you and, through its welfare work, the RSA does a similar job,” he says.

Born and raised on the North Shore, Mike’s only real contact with Warkworth prior to taking up the RSA position was playing rugby for Takapuna against Mahurangi.

Although he has given the rugby away, he still plays golf whenever he can and has coached basketball, rugby and touch rugby at junior levels.

He says he doesn’t plan to make any immediate changes at the RSA, but will spend his first few months getting to know staff and the processes. He believes the venue lends itself to being a community hub, particularly for families.

During his policing career, Mike rose to the rank of sergeant and worked in Otara, Henderson and North Shore. He was involved in community policing, youth aid, including Blue Light, and on the front line.

Three years ago, he decided he needed a different challenge and became the director of Zambrero Mexican restaurant, in Oteha Valley Road, which he still owns.

He lives in Silverdale with wife Jeni, a daughter and twin boys.

Mike took over as manager from Robbie Blair, who is now a driver for the Mahu City Express.