If there’s one thing guaranteed to brighten your day, it’s watching a bunch of Kiwi kids learning about what our police get up to.
Ask a youngster what they want to be when they grow up, and “police officer” is usually right up there - and some tamariki in Tauranga got to see for themselves what it’s really like to be part of the NZ Police force.
Early learning centre Future Focus Pāpāmoa Beach had a special visit from local officers, and their adorable - and just as hilarious - interactions were caught on camera.
“Our tamariki had an absolute blast laughing, learning, and asking questions!” the centre wrote on Instagram. “We’re so grateful for opportunities like this where education and community come together!”
In the clip, the kids try to make their best police siren sounds before hopping in the front seat of the patrol car to hear the real deal.
In classic Kiwi humour, one officer handcuffed a kid named Auggie and pranked him, saying: “Wonder if I brought the keys?” A surprised Auggie stared back with a look like, “aye??”
Another little girl had a turn, and the officer asked: “That’s the only time you’re ever gonna wear these, aye sweetie?”
When quizzed on what police keep in their vests, one child confidently guessed a "blowtorch". The officer cracked up, saying: “That’s one out of the books. When would I use a blowtorch?”
He then revealed it was actually his “Harry Potter stick" - that might be the best name I've heard for an extendable baton... the first and probably only alternative, but still.
Others were sure he was carrying a gun, but instead the officer pulled out a taser and even gave a quick demo of how they use a little red light for aim to ensure they never miss.
Luckily, the officer clarified he’s never had to use it before - phew.
“From an education lens, building familiarity with important community helpers like our NZ Police is essential,” Future Focus said about the day.
“It helps our tamariki recognise the people who are here to support, protect, and guide us, making those early connections that foster both trust and confidence.”
If there’s one thing we need more of in this world, it’s that - plus a good laugh at the cuteness of these visits, too.
