Inspector Matt Scoles will take over as Aoraki Area Commander on Monday, bringing 30 years of policing experience to the role.

Born and raised in Dunedin, Scoles joined New Zealand Police in 1996. He has served as Youth and Community Services Manager in Dunedin and has filled in as both an Area Commander and District Commander in the Southern District.

His most recent role was District Manager of Operations Support in the Southern District.

Canterbury District Commander Superintendent Tony Hill said Scoles was a “fantastic addition” to Canterbury Police.

“I look forward to him getting underway and building connections with our Aoraki community,” Hill said.

Scoles succeeds Inspector Vicki Walker, who has led the Aoraki area for almost four years. Hill thanked Walker for her leadership and commitment during that time.