The insignia of rank worn by New Zealand police officers has its origins in our colonial past.

In 1846 when Governor George Grey arrived in New Zealand, such was the state of disorder that he introduced a para-military force to carry out both policing and military duties.

The uniforms drew on the insignia of rank worn by the British military. There is still a strong parallel with army ranks today.

The Commissioner equates to a Lieutenant General. The Deputy Commissioner is the equivalent of a Major General. An Assistant Commissioner is the same as a Brigadier. A Superintendent equates to Lieutenant Colonel. An Inspector is the same rank as a Captain. A Senior Sergeant is the equivalent of a Warrant Officer.

Sergeants are the same in both services. There is no equivalent army rank for a Senior Constable. Constables are the same as Privates.

How do you progress through the ranks?

Progression through the ranks depends on passing qualifying exams and applying for and being appointed to vacancies.

The breakdown of police officers in the respective ranks is as follows:

• 75 percent are Constables
• 15 percent are Sergeants
• 5 percent are Senior Sergeants
• 5 percent are Inspectors and above.