New Zealand’s newly appointed High Commissioner to Fiji, His Excellency Greg Andrews, has reaffirmed his government’s dedication to enhancing collaboration with the Fiji Police Force. This commitment was emphasized during a courtesy visit to Commissioner of Police Rusiate Tudravu on March 2, 2026, at the Fiji Police Force Headquarters. Mr. Andrews received a warm welcome, including a quarter guard ceremony from Acting Deputy Commissioner of Police Mesake Waqa.
During their meeting, Mr. Andrews expressed gratitude to the Fiji Police Force for its ongoing partnership with the New Zealand Police, recognizing its role in ensuring safety for New Zealand citizens residing in or visiting Fiji. Commissioner Tudravu acknowledged the robust and growing relationship between the two police services, highlighting significant contributions made by New Zealand officers in areas such as the K-9 Unit, the Fiji Police Academy, and the Criminal Investigations Department. The Commissioner particularly pointed out the value of knowledge-sharing initiatives, including the implementation of the Officer Safety Programme, which has benefitted the Fiji Police Force.
Mr. Andrews, who has a distinguished background, including roles as New Zealand’s Ambassador to several European nations and Deputy Head of Mission at the New Zealand Mission to the European Union, is set to work closely with the Commissioner to further strengthen the ties between the two agencies.
Additionally, the visit signaled a change within the New Zealand Police Liaison Office, with Superintendent Glyn Rowland being farewelled as the outgoing Senior Liaison Officer (Pacific), and Superintendent Nicholas Brown stepping into the role. Superintendent Brown brings valuable experience from his previous position as Executive Director of the Pacific Islands Chiefs of Police Secretariat.
Before concluding his visit, Mr. Andrews and his delegation paid their respects, signing the condolence book for the late Police Constable 8012 Peniasi Racagi, who tragically lost his life in the line of duty on February 22, 2026.
The Fiji Police Partnership Programme, established with the backing of the New Zealand Government, aims to enhance various aspects of police work, including investigative interviewing, patrol dog capabilities, asset recovery support, and leadership training. Formalized under the Duavata Partnership Agreement, this initiative includes deploying Senior Police Advisors who work alongside the Fiji Police Force, further contributing to regional safety and governance efforts. The introduction of the Officer Safety Programme represents a significant advancement in police training and support throughout the Pacific region, showcasing the strong commitment of both nations to law enforcement collaboration.
Leave a comment