New Zealand (Commonwealth Union)_ In a significant step forward for representation in New Zealand’s police force, Indian-origin Superintendent Sundip Sunny Patel has been named the new District Commander for Auckland City. The appointment is being celebrated as a historic moment for both the Indian community and the wider public. Accordingly, Patel is now one of the highest-ranking operational police officers in the country. He becomes only the second officer of Indian heritage to reach the rank of superintendent, following in the footsteps of Rakesh Naidoo, who currently serves as national partnerships manager for ethnic communities.
Also read: Brains, Bravery, and the Stars: Indian-Origin Astronauts Changing the Face of Space
The announcement was made official at a recent ceremony held at Auckland’s Mahatma Gandhi Centre. Deputy Commissioner Jill Rogers, who attended the event, praised Patel’s dedication and professionalism. “This is a well-deserved recognition of Sunny’s leadership and commitment over the years,” she said. Additionally, community leaders across Auckland have also welcomed the news. Māori and Pacific leaders expressed strong support, saying Patel’s understanding of multicultural communities will help strengthen trust between the police and local residents. Members of the Indian community also shared their pride, seeing Patel’s rise as a powerful inspiration for the next generation.
Also read: Blasting Into History: Indian Fighter Pilot Becomes the Nation’s New Space Hero!
In his remarks, Patel said he was honoured by the recognition and ready to take on the responsibilities of the role. “I’m very proud of my team. With their dedication and skill, I know we’re ready to face whatever challenges come our way,” he said. He also reaffirmed his focus on community safety and building lasting relationships across all groups. Born in Leicester, England, Patel grew up in a household shaped by migration. His parents migrated to the UK from Kenya and Uganda, bringing with them tales of perseverance and adaptability. According to Patel, this exposure and experiences taught him the value of knowing diverse cultures, which has served him well throughout his career in law enforcement. His law enforcement career initiated in 1998, where he joined London’s Metropolitan Police. Initially, he worked on the front lines and in community duties, finally rising to the rank of Sergeant. However, his career took a turn in 2007 when he took the daring choice to relocate to New Zealand, taking his knowledge to a new country and police department.
Also read: Commonwealth Union crowns Actor Napolean as the Best Father!
Over the past 17 years, Patel has worked in several major police districts, including Waitematā, Auckland, and Counties Manukau. He has also temporarily led operations in regions like Bay of Plenty and Northland. Colleagues say this mix of practical experience and strategic thinking makes him uniquely suited to lead Auckland City’s police district, which is the country’s largest and most complex. In each post he served, he prioritized establishing trust with local populations, particularly those from various backgrounds. Additionally, Patel also served as the Director of Evidence-Based Policing at the national level in Wellington. This role provided him with thorough knowledge of how data and strategy may help make smarter police decisions.
Outside of work, Patel is a dedicated family man. He lives in Auckland’s North Shore with his wife, Ravina, and their two daughters, Aaliyah and Sia. Additionally, being a sports enthusiast, he played football and cricket throughout his youth and is now a qualified Level Two New Zealand Cricket coach. He volunteers his time helping young players grow their skills and confidence. He also enjoys early morning workouts and the occasional round of golf, seeing fitness as a way to stay balanced and focused in a demanding career. As Superintendent Sunny Patel steps into this major role, his appointment is being seen not just as a personal milestone, but as a reflection of how far New Zealand has come in building a police force that truly represents its people.
