Polite Force [CURRENT]

Ngā Pirihimanaaki, The NZ Polite Force works to promote and encourage sociability, through performance and participation in public spaces. Whether it’s walking the streets, attending public events, or providing Polite Officers for official engagements, the NZ POLITE Force aims to lift. spirits, go above and beyond in the use of good manners, exude good humour and remind citizens of the joy of play.

Ngā Pirihimanaaki o Aotearoa New Zealand Polite Force.

The NZ POLITE Force works to promote and encourage sociability, through performance and participation in public spaces. Whether it’s walking the streets, attending public events, or providing POLITE Officers for official engagements, the NZ POLITE Force aims to lift spirits, go above and beyond in the use of good manners, exude good humour and bonhomie, and remind citizens of the joy of play.

The POLITE Force will hit the streets of Ōtautahi over the months of March/April/May 2021, walking the ‘city beat’ as well as basing themselves at certain locations and events, working with and assisting the citizens of Christchurch to ensure a positive spin is put on their day.

POLITE Officers are easily recognisable in their distinctive uniform as well as in the tasks they carry out. Every POLITE Officer will exemplify best citizen behaviour, initiating or acknowledging positive interactions to create memorable, impactful experiences.

The POLITE Force is on a mission to work their magic and inspire people – individually or collectively – to join them in random acts of merrymaking, with the ultimate goal being the creation of POLITE Forces across Aotearoa and beyond.

New Zealand POLITE Force: Inspiring citizens to do good!

Ngā Mātāpono

Ngā Pirihimaanaki follow five mātāpono we stand by:
 
MANAAKITANGA
We make people feel appreciated for the small and often missed positive actions they take in day to day life. 
WHANAUNGATANGA
We are playful in our day to day actions and 
encourage sociability amongst fellow citizens 
to create a more socially connected society.
KAITIAKITANGA
We will reward citizens for taking pride and respecting their environment and surrounds. 
WHAKAMANA
We value and learn from differing views and encourage citizens to be considerate of others’ experiences and perspectives. 
KOTAHITANGA 
We unite with fellow citizens who take a lead in promoting good and generally making the world a better place. 

Who, what, where, when

Date: April/ May/ June 2021 (Gap Filler on the streets)

Locations: Christchurch CBD

Client/Funder: Christchurch City Council

Key people: Regan Stokes

Values: Participation, Experimentation, Collaboration, Creativity

Support/Sponsors: Tait Communications, Airborne Paddling

While it seems like all fun and games, our ultimate goal is to promote active citizenship and to encourage others to create a Polite Force of their own, within their community.

Elisha Blogg