Paula (Te Ata) joined NZ Police in 2017, and appointed to Director: Recruitment in 2022. Part of the People Operations Leadership Team, she leads the Recruitment function for NZ Police. This remit includes recruitment for all new Police recruits, new employees, permanent and fixed term appointments, and promotions.
During her time as Director she has co-led the 2022 NZ Police recruitment campaign – Puhikura, targeted initiatives to increase the wāhine Māori Constabulary workforce and implemented several cultural competency uplifts to the recruitment process including; a tikanga Māori approach to interview support (Whānau kaitautoko).
Ex-service women of 11 years in the Royal NZ Navy, and returned veteran. Paula (Te Ata) served on HMNZS’s Canterbury (both Frigate and Auxiliary class), multiple deployments on HMNZS Te Kaha, Te Mana and shore establishment HMNZS Philomel. Recipient of Sailor of the Quarter 2007, and finalist for Sailor of the Year. Awarded Maritime Component Commander Commendation’s in 2005 and 2011. Released from service in 2012 at the rank of Petty Officer Radio Supervisor.
Paula (Te Ata) is passionate about all things diversity recruitment, with a particular regard for achieving better employability outcomes for Māori and Pasifika – meaning her children will have a brighter future. She is currently working on a self-managed research project exploring: First nations and Indigenous Recruitment which focusses building credibility and cultural capability to increase capacity.