Investigates serious crimes, such as terrorism, homicide, armed robbery, vice and arson, and gathers evidence to arrest and prosecute suspected offenders.

Investigates and prosecutes offences; secures and examines scenes of crimes and accidents to obtain evidence; protects witnesses and investigates official corruption; maintains public order and safety; patrols assigned areas to minimise potential for public disturbance and crime; investigates accidents, crimes, minor offences and citizens' complaints, gathering evidence, and pursuing, arresting and interviewing suspected offenders; tests persons suspected of driving under the influence of alcohol and drugs and issues infringement notices for traffic offences; directs and re-routes traffic at congested areas; attends community meetings and answers inquiries; gives advice and assistance to victims of crime and their families; maintains records and prepares reports.

• Employees work indoors, but are frequently outdoors and frequently travel in police vehicles and may escort offenders. Police stations and vehicles are adequately heated and ventilated, but detectives work outside in all weather conditions to attend incidents and carry out investigations.
• Detectives deal with dangerous situations arising out of investigations and contact with armed and aggressive offenders, and violent people. Work situations may be stressful and distressing.

• Light to medium physical demand levels.
• Employees frequently sit, walk, stand, run and occasionally undertake other physical actions.
• Stretching and reaching and twisting of the body or neck are not significant components of the job. Squatting or crouching may be occasionally necessary for some investigative tasks. Heavy lifting, pulling or carrying is likely on an occasional basis where physical restraint is required to make an arrest. Intermittent bending may be required.
• Contact with skin irritants or water is unlikely.
• Repetitive movements other than for typing up reports are not a significant component of the role. Use of a range of electronic communication and basic policing equipment will be required. Use of personal protective equipment or weapons may also be required. Driving is required, at times in unmarked police vehicles or at speed.
• Mental skills necessary include a high level of communication, problem-solving, interviewing, record-keeping and analytical skills.

A New Zealand Register Level 5 or 6 qualification or at least three years relevant experience (ANZSCO Skill Level 2). In some instances particular experience and/or on-the-job training may be required.

There are limited opportunities for flexibility of movement.