Rural communities are a vital part of New Zealand’s identity, economy, and way of life. But policing them presents challenges that differ significantly from towns and cities. Geographic isolation, limited police resources, and the close-knit nature of rural communities all shape how rural policing works across Aotearoa.
Community Patrols of New Zealand works alongside NZ Police to support safer rural communities through visibility, prevention, and community engagement. With 165 affiliated patrols and 4,500 volunteers nationwide — many serving rural and small-town New Zealand — CPNZ provides a community-led layer of support that complements formal policing.
Acting as the “eyes and ears” of Police, patrol volunteers improve visibility, strengthen community connections, and support information sharing. Rural districts are an important focus of this work, particularly where police resources are stretched across large areas.
As rural crime evolves, community partnerships and prevention are becoming more important than ever. This Rural Safety Hub provides accessible information, practical tools, research summaries, and community-focused resources for safer, more connected rural communities.
Join us: CPNZ hosts the National Rural Community Safety Webinar on Wednesday 16 September — bringing together NZ Police, Federated Farmers, FMG, Rural Support Trust, Rural Women NZ, Ministers and rural sector leaders. Click this link to register: Rural Community Safety Webinar
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