Indian-origin Sergeant Gurpreet Arora has been appointed by Queen Elizabeth II as a Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit (MNZM) on her Birthday Honours List.
Sergeant Arora has become the first Ethnic Police Officer in New Zealand to achieve this highly-placed Order.
The Order is given by the Queen twice a year on the advice of the New Zealand government.
The MNZM are awarded to those,
“who, in any field of endeavour have rendered meritorious service to the Crown and Nation or who have become distinguished by their eminence, talents, contributions or other merits.”
Police Commissioner Andy Coster has congratulated Sergeant Arora.
He said Sergeant Arora has worked extensively with South Asian communities in New Zealand.
Sergeant Arora helped develop or implement projects such as Operation Dukan.
In this operation, Kiwi Police worked with small business proprietors to improve their safety at a time of high offending against them.
Speaking to Indian Newslink, Sergeant Arora said that he was honoured to receive the high Honour given by the Queen through the New Zealand government.
“The Police journey has been full of challenges and sacrifices but very rewarding. This is not just my achievement, it is an achievement for the whole community and I wish to thank all those who have helped me on this journey.”
Sergeant Arora joined the New Zealand Police in 2006.
He attributed the Award to the survivors of Family Violence and to the brilliant social workers and counsellors supporting victims including children and perpetrators.
“I will continue to work hard to ensure I play my part in reducing Family Violence and elder abuse in our communities. I wish to acknowledge my mother and my wife. Without their support, I would not have been able to achieve what I have achieved to date.”
Sergeant Arora has been involved in almost all aspects of Policing and was one of the founders of Gandhi Nivas, a service established in December 2014.
In addition, he was also instrumental in introducing Diwali and Eid Celebrations in Counties Manukau about ten years ago.
Last year, Sergeant Arora was awarded a coveted medal for his 14-years-long service and good conduct with New Zealand Police.
