Personal Protection Officer
Tasks & duties
Personal protection officers may do some or all of the following:
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study the client's daily schedule
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consider possible threats to the client's safety
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plan the details of the security
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protect the client from any harm or embarrassment
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make sure the client is following safety procedures
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monitor the client's safety discreetly
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stay aware of people and surroundings
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remain ready to respond to an emergency and take suitable action
Skills & knowledge
Personal protection officers need to know about protection procedures and the New Zealand laws that define the limits of their legal powers. Knowledge of political and social issues, and various cultures and societies is also useful.
Personal protection officers also need to have:
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self-defence skills
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good driving skills
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negotiating skills
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good communication and people skills
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planning skills
Members of the Diplomatic Protection Squad must have advanced firearm skills.
Entry requirements
To become a personal protection officer you must train through the New Zealand Police (most common) or privately.
To work as a personal protection officer in the Police, you must first become a police officer. After completing police training, you need to undergo an intensive two-week course.
To work privately you need to have proven experience and a good reputation in the security industry. You must also be registered under the Private Investigators and Security Guards Act.
Secondary education
NCEA level two English and maths may be useful to enter further training.
Tertiary education
There are a number of tertiary courses available that help prepare police applicants for the police entrance test. Courses for private personal protection officers are also available.
Training on the job
Protection officers who are police officers receive on-the-job training. They have regular training in unarmed combat, driving and shooting. Personal protection officers in the private sector may gain further experience through job experience or by attending private training courses.
Useful experience
All members of the Diplomatic Protection Squad are experienced police officers. For private personal protection officers, a military background or experience in the security industry is useful.
Related courses
Police Studies
Security Services
For more information, please refer to Career Services.
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