The Department of Corrections and the Counties Manukau Police celebrated the Indian Festival of lights at a joint celebration this year. The event was attended by staff from the Manukau District at Corrections and the Counties Police staff, amongst other invitees were representatives of other Government and non government agencies like the Ministry of Justice, the Victim Advisors, Auckland Council, Child Youth and Family, Housing New Zealand, South Auckland Violence prevention Network, representatives of the Indian community, to name a few.
This was a momentous occasion where the two agencies came together for the first time to acknowledge and celebrate the Indian culture. Mr Darius Fagan , the District Manager at Corrections wished the entire community a Happy Diwali and stated that the event will also help to further networking amongst agencies in working together towards reducing reoffending.District Commander John Tims said in his speech, “Prevention First, starts right here through this event”. The event included cultural performances, presentation ceremony followed by Indian lunch.
"The event was organised to bring people from different backgrounds together to celebrate this auspicious occasion and increase awareness about the Indian culture" says Constable Gurpreet Arora, Counties Manukau South Asian Liaison Officer. "It was great to see non-Indians dressed in traditional Indian dress including Saris."