Police video phones for small communities

The use of video telephony technology could soon help rural communities gain additional police support.

A videophone must be tested at the Waipukurau Police Station. Residents can talk to police personnel in Hastings.

Senior Sergeant Bryan Smith said new technologies could improve police services, especially in smaller communities such as Waipukurau.

"We want everyone in New Zealand to be able to contact us anytime, anywhere, so we are testing new technologies as part of a larger effort to improve our service delivery." , did he declare.

He said the new service is not designed to replace the current face-to-face interactions.

"It's just about creating more options for the public so that he can choose how, where and when he will contact us," said Senior Sergeant Smith.

The information and results of the trial will be used to decide future use of videophones in Waipukurau and elsewhere.

Police said the videophone was intended for use in non-emergency situations, such as reporting lost property, seeking advice or applying for a firearms license.

Newshub.