International links

The Authority has gained international recognition for its oversight of the Police.

The Authority is committed to learning from and contributing to international best practice in civilian oversight of Police. To that end, Authority members and staff are in working contact with corresponding authorities in other nations including the United Kingdom, Ireland, Australia, and Canada.

In addition, the Authority’s investigators have been asked to contribute to international efforts to enhance civilian oversight of Police.

Kenya

During 2008, one of the Authority’s investigators served as lead investigator for Kenya’s Commission of Inquiry into Post Election Violence, investigating the murders of more than 1100 people during clashes over the results of that country’s 2007 presidential election.

East Timor

During 2009, another investigator is mentoring police complaints investigators in East Timor.

Salaries and other expenses for investigators on overseas postings are funded through the relevant international body. The Authority uses contract investigators to ensure continued progress on its investigations in their absence.

For several months during 2008, the Authority provided an internship to former Zimbabwe High Court Judge Benjamin Paradza, as part of his study towards New Zealand legal qualifications.