New South Wairarapa police head named | Wairarapa News | Local News in Wairarapa

Sergeant Kevin Basher has been appointed to the position of officer-in-charge of South Wairarapa, taking over from Ben Offner. Mr Basher has had many years experience of policing in Wairarapa, having worked from the Masterton station for 2? years, and over six years out of Eketahuna. Mr Basher said he is looking forward to the opportunity to serve the South Wairarapa community. "I'm committed to be being a community- oriented officer, and sorting out any crime - related issues," Mr Basher said. Mr Basher was the preferred replacement for Sergeant Offner, who has been promoted to Senior Sergeant and is stationed in Upper Hutt. The appointment was made public on Wednesday. Since Mr Offner's departure South Wairarapa has come under the control of long-serving Senior Constable Tony Matheson. Mr Offner's tenure in South Wairarapa lasted for about 2? years and during which time he played a leading role in several major incidents and investigations.