Full Breakdown
Andrew Coster Resigns Following IPCA Report on Police Misconduct
12/3/2025, 10:14:24 PM
Overview of the Resignation
Former Police Commissioner Andrew Coster has resigned from his position as Secretary of Social Investment and Chief Executive of the Social Investment Agency, effective December 3, 2025. This decision follows the release of a report by the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA), which criticized the police's handling of allegations against former Deputy Commissioner Jevon McSkimming. Coster acknowledged that the shortcomings identified in the report occurred under his leadership and accepted full responsibility for the failings that led to significant distress for the complainant.
Key Findings of the IPCA Report
The IPCA's report highlighted serious misconduct at high levels of the police, including Coster, regarding how allegations of sexual offending by McSkimming were managed. The report indicated that when the police eventually referred the complainant's claims to the authority, senior police attempted to influence the investigation. Coster admitted that he was "too ready to trust" McSkimming's explanations and should have acted more decisively to investigate the allegations when they were first raised.
Official Statements & Responses
In a statement, Coster expressed regret for the impact on the young woman at the center of the allegations, apologizing for the distress caused. He stated, "I accept that I was too ready to trust and accept at face value Deputy Commissioner McSkimming's disclosure and explanations to me." Public Service Commissioner Sir Brian Roche acknowledged Coster's decision to resign as the right course of action, emphasizing that while the IPCA found serious leadership failures, there was no evidence of corruption or intentional wrongdoing by police leaders.
Criticism & Opposition
Public Service Minister Judith Collins remarked that Coster's resignation was necessary, stating, "High standards are rightly expected of all public sector leaders." She characterized the findings of the IPCA as a "massive failure of leadership." Labour leader Chris Hipkins expressed disappointment in police leadership, asserting that senior police failed to hold McSkimming accountable for his actions. Hipkins emphasized that such failures are inexcusable and undermine public confidence in the police.
Coster's Reflection and Future Intentions
Coster described the period following the IPCA report as "very challenging" for himself and his family. He expressed a desire to return to public service in the future, stating, "I have devoted my professional life to the service of others." He acknowledged the adverse effects of the situation on the morale and reputation of the New Zealand Police, apologizing to police staff for the fallout from the events.
Conclusion
Andrew Coster's resignation underscores the increasing demand for accountability within New Zealand's public institutions, particularly regarding sensitive allegations and internal oversight. The IPCA report serves as a reminder of the critical importance of thorough investigations and the need for transparent processes to protect vulnerable individuals. While Coster's departure marks a significant moment in New Zealand's policing landscape, it also raises questions about the systems in place to ensure accountability among public leaders.
