Emergencies and the Police

What to do in an emergency

If you need immediate help (for example, medical assistance due to an accident) or if you need to talk with the Police or to report a fire, phone 111.

The call is free.

A person will ask you which service you need (Fire, Police or Ambulance). Be ready to tell them what has happened and where you are. If someone is injured and needs to go to hospital, an ambulance will arrive and take them.

If it’s not possible to make a phone call, go as quickly as possible to the nearest place where there are people who may be able to assist you.

This could be a nearby shop or house where there are lights on. If you can’t do this, make lots of noise to attract attention. As soon as you can, go to a safe place and dial 111 and ask for the emergency service you need: Fire, Police or Ambulance.

If you need urgent medical treatment, but are well enough to travel, you can make your own way to a nearby Accident and Medical Centre.

For after hours help, you will need to go to your nearest After Hours Medical Centre or ask a friend to take you. If your injury is serious, the medical staff will have you admitted to the Accident and Emergency department at your nearest hospital.

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How to contact local Police and other support agencies

There are several organisations in New Zealand concerned with public safety.

The Police are there to help anyone at any time.

When you move into your accommodation, find out where the local Police station is, and record its phone number. You can go to your local Police station for help or phone them. Most universities also have community Police and some have offices on campus.

The Police also have quick access to interpreters who can help explain things. The Police website can also be accessed in a number of different languages.

If you are a woman you can request to speak to a female police officer in any dealings with the Police. This also applies to men that only want to speak to a male officer.

Look in the local telephone book for the number, or go to the Police website at www.police.govt.nz.

If there is a crime, the Police will investigate and advise you about follow-up action. They will tell you about other support services that may be helpful, such as Victim Support, which helps people who have been the victim of a crime, accident or emergency.

You can also look under 'Victim Support' in your local telephone book, or go to the Victim Support website at www.victimsupport.org.nz.

Your local branch of the Community Law Centre may also be able to provide advice and assistance. These centres provide free advice on New Zealand laws and legal procedures. Many cities and towns have Community Law Centres; the phone number is in your local telephone book.

The student welfare person or department at your education provider will also be able to offer support and may be able to help you if you are dealing with the Police.

A publication on your rights as a victim is on the New Zealand Ministry of Justice website at www.justice.govt.nz.

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What to do if you are accused of a crime

If you are arrested, you have the right to contact a lawyer as soon as possible.

If you appear in court, you will need a lawyer.

There will be a lawyer at the court who will give you legal help if required, or you can hire your own lawyer. Lawyers are in the best position to advise you on your legal rights.

You also have the right to contact your Embassy and your family.

Contact your local Community Law Centre (in the local telephone book) for information and advice about New Zealand’s laws. Or go to the Community Law website at www.communitylaw.org.nz.