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This is an important time for the Police force,
especially when it comes to road and water safety.
Domestic violence in homes is also an issue.
We'll hear from Maori Inspector Hurimoana Dennis
about safety during this holiday season.
The biggest problems police face are burglaries and youth gangs.
That's the why we have Maori mediators
because they understand Maori.
They understand how to talk to our youth.
But it's still a big problem Shane.
In recent weeks, we've seen
some disgusting crimes perpetuated in the community – your thoughts?
It's a sad state of affairs for Maori.
I think that it's all about good parenting.
If they are good parents, then all will be well within the family.
I think it's the worst possible sin, and it's not just with Maori.
It's a parent's obligation.
The difference with Maori is that we know the ways of our people,
our iwi, families and our marae.
That's the best way to deal with this issue.
So why aren't we enforcing these traditions?
You have mentioned families and the hapu and iwi,
but it seems that we aren't taking these beliefs into account.
You're right about that Shane, but I think that the biggest
obligation police and mediators have is to hold true to our traditions.
You're right in saying that some are clueless.
Some know nothing of their ancestral ties and the inherent qualities
that it affords them, and that's okay.
To us, they are still Maori.
The important thing is to ensure that they are cared for.
Apart from the issues that concern our families,
what warnings do you have for the people on our roads?
Because it's an important issue at this time of the year, yes?
Yes, you are right.
It's important that our kids wear seatbelts
and that no one engages in drink-driving.
Don't speed, and remember to follow the rules of the road.
If you are unsure, ask a police officer.
We implore everyone to follow these instructions
during the Christmas period because we know that it's a time
when we are all traveling to our homes,
to our marae and to our families.
Roads aside, what of water safety?
Because many people gravitate to these areas,
what warnings do you have
to prevent drowning as it often occurs at this time of the year?
The main thing is to heed the advice of your parents.
They are the guardians of the family.
But I know that some of our youth are stubborn and hard of hearing.
Police plead that people listen to what life-savers have to say
because they are experts in the ways of the sea.
And I always tell my own kids
to pray to Tangaroa as he is the supreme authority of the sea.
That was Hurimoana Dennis, spokesman for the NZ Police.