"Repay the Risk": Tensions Flare as Police Union Alleges Threats Amid Unprecedented Pay Campaign

Police Association President Steve Watt reports "anecdotal" threats against staff participating in a new "active advocacy" campaign as bargaining begins May 1st.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 20, 2026, 9:07 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

The Breaking Development: The "Sticker War" at Dunedin Central

The campaign reached a flashpoint this week when "Repay the Risk" stickers appeared inside the Dunedin Central police station.

The Directive: Southern District Commander Jason Guthrie and Assistant Commissioner Jeanette Park issued memos explicitly forbidding the use of non-branded materials (stickers, ribbons, lanyards) on uniforms or police assets, including vehicles and laptops.

The Retort: Steve Watt described these memos as a "direct attack" on the campaign. He argued that while staff are not writing on patrol cars or station windows, they should be permitted symbolic gestures given their inability to take industrial action.

Allegations of Intimidation: The Association has characterized the police leadership's response as an attempt to "intimidate members" and has reported hearing that some staff were warned of punitive measures under the police code of conduct.

Background and Strategic Context: A Workforce Without a Strike