Police pay tribute to fallen officer Matt Ratana
Matiu "Matt" Ratana, the New Zealand-born police officer killed in the line of duty in the United Kingdom in October, has been remembered by police with a special rugby game.
Auckland police and Counties Manukau police honoured the "strong rugby boy" on Saturday by playing each other in the inaugural game for the Sgt Matt Matiu Ratana Memorial trophy.
Ratana, 54, worked for both districts while policing in New Zealand.
Ratana, 54, who was originally from Hawke's Bay, was shot dead in a South London custody centre on September 25, allegedly by a man who had been detained, while working for Metropolitan Police.
The trophy was funded by former New Zealand Police colleagues and acknowledges Ratana's rank of sergeant in the Metropolitan Police Service.
It bears a huia feather - the police tradition to honour fallen officers.
Also attached to the trophy are blue and white ribbons showing the colours of Auckland and of Ratana's beloved East Grinstead Rugby Football Club.
The commemorative game will become an annual event for police rugby in Auckland and Counties Manukau.
Poll: If we want to reduce speeding, what do you think actually changes driver behaviour? 🛻🚨🚓
In the Post's article on speeding penalties, the question is asked whether speeding fines are truly about road safety, or are they just a way to boost revenue for the Crown?
What do you think? Should speeding motorists receive speeding fines or demerit points?
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30.2% The sting of a fine (Money talks!)
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69.8% The threat of demerit points (Nobody wants to lose their license!)
Poll: Is Auckland’s economy improving?
The latest reporting from The Post suggests a wave of optimism for 2026. With interest rates finally heading south, businesses are feeling more positive. But for many on the ground, the real-world recovery feels a bit like a slow-moving commute on Auckland's motorways.
We want to know: Are you seeing signs of Auckland's economy improving in your industry or neighbourhood? Whether it's busier shops, new projects kicking off, or just a shift in the mood ...
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17% Yes
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65.4% No
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17.6% A little
Te Atatu Food Truck Friday - THIS Friday - March 6th
Te Atatu Food Truck Fridays is back this Friday if you’re looking for something fun to do on a Friday night.
| March 6th | 4:30pm – 8:30pm | Te Atatū South Community Centre
- A stacked mega line up of food trucks including Those Guys J & M burgers, Gyrolicious Greek, Baja Tacos, Natalia’s Food Journey, Akemi’s Gyoza (Japanese dumplings), Cream Ice Cream and Ae Brew (coffee/ matcha).
- Live Music with the captivating Lauren Collins
- Free ReCreators kids’ craft workshops
- Repair Café – bring along small household items for free repairs (koha appreciated).
Come join us for a relaxed, family-friendly night out in the community. Plenty of parking and seating or picnic in the park.
📅 Save the date at www.facebook.com....
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