Dexter Traill
Ex Inspector Dexter Traill is a man of many talents. A policeman and traffic officer for 33 years, these days Dexter works with the Office of the Ombudsman as the Kaiwhakahaere: Maori Hononga Hapori - Director: Maori and Community Engagement. His aim is to build the cultural capability within the Office of the Ombudsman and to lift the profile of the Ombudsman Office to the hard-to-reach communities. And also introducing a Te Ao Maori Transformation Programme. His previous experience as a sports administrator and mental health coach is useful in his current role.
The position of Ombudsman had existed in New Zealand since the appointment of Sir Guy Powles to the role in 1962, making NZ only the second country, outside of Scandinavia, the first being Sweden to establish the position. The main purpose of the role was to act as a mediator for people who made complaints against Government departments, local Governments, and Boards of Trustees. “We investigate complaints of mal-administration.”
During 2019 and 2020 there had been approximately 2800 complaints received by the Office of the Ombudsman and in general made by the public against Government Departments, Local Government Agencies, and Boards of Trustees. Complaints are often related to the Official Information Act.
Fundamental to Dexter’s work is that he and his team need to understand the people they were investigating. ”We need to give assurances that all information we receive will be kept in the strictest of confidence, and we must do our best to see things from all points of view.” “Fairness for all”
The Office of the Ombudsman is reactive in its approach, but it also needed to make decisions about complaints it received. It was required to explore all avenues before making its decision, ensuring it is considered and fair.
A big fan of Arthur Lydiard, Dexter stressed the importance of physical and mental exercise as a way of helping younger people to lead healthy lives and to make the right choices.
In closing, Dexter said how proud he felt to have worn the uniform and the professional way his fellow Police colleagues dealt with the recent protests outside Parliament.
Poll: Should we ditch daylight saving? 🕰️
First introduced in New Zealand in 1927 with the passing of the Summer Time Act, it's what we know as 'Daylight Saving' and this year it ends on the first Sunday in April.
While we do get to sleep in this time around, some people would like to scrap the clock tinkering for good.
And why? Some evidence suggests the time changes are bad for our health as they mess with sleep patterns leading to short-term fatigue and affecting mood. Meanwhile the hour change is frustrating for farmers and a nightmare for getting the littlies to sleep. But what's your take?
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40.5% Yes - get rid of the clock changes
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57.6% No, I enjoy it
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1.9% Other - I'll share below
Alan and Hazel Kerr share Senior New Zealander of the Year Award 2026
Dr Alan and Hazel Kerr describe themselves as ‘just ordinary old Kiwis’, despite being named as the 2026 Ryman Healthcare Senior New Zealanders of the Year Te Mātāpuputu o te Tau.
The amazing couple prompted a standing ovation at a star-studded Auckland event which recognised their tireless efforts, with Alan travelling to and from Gaza and the West Bank 40 times to help children over 20 years, and Hazel travelling 20 times.
Click read more to find out more.
We're taking the bus!
The number of Wellingtonians taking the bus and train rose by 3% last week compared to the same time last year, according to Metlink.
Not surprising given petrol prices at the moment. But if you're considering giving up your car commute for a leisurely bus ride in the mornings, it would be worth it.
It's about to get even easier: In April, e-pay will be launched, meaning you can tap on with your credit cards as well as smart devices.
It's better on the environment too: With most Metlink trains running on electricity, 25% of the bus fleet being EV’s and the Ika Rere electric ferry, Metlink is able to move more people using less fuel than any other transport option.
With fuel costs so high, it's a good idea to jump on board if you can. If you've become a public transport convert recently, how have you found it?
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