Rotorua police go bald on the beat

If Operation Bald on the Beat was a real police operation it would be mission accomplished.

Tens of thousands of dollars now line the coffers for young cancer sufferers after about 100 people shaved their heads for charity.

The grand total of last night's funding raising mission, staged by the Rotorua police for CanTeen and the Child Cancer Foundation at the Rotorua Convention Centre, is not yet known but organiser Detective Sergeant Chris McLeod is confident they raised $60,000.

About 60 police officers shaved their heads and their efforts were supported by about a further 40 people.

Among those to join the police were Rotorua photographer Tracey Robinson whose friends sponsored her $550 and Rotorua District Court Judge Chris McGuire who accepted a challenge to shave his head for a $500 sponsorship from law firm Gordon Pilditch.

Retired Senior Sergeant Dave Donaldson kissed goodbye to his moustache for $500 - the first time he has been without one in 34 years.

Constable Mike Robinson gave more than just the hair on his chest, which was waxed for hundreds of dollars, when he was the highest bidder for a signed All Blacks jersey for $1770.

Rotorua District Council district licensing inspector Julie Smale also volunteered her scalp, along with Rotorua police area commander Inspector Bruce Horne, non-sworn staff members Trish Poupard, Shreeve Donaldson and Pauline Bushett and female constables Nicky Riordan and Sarah Hill.

Former Rotorua police Detective Inspector Graham Bell got into the spirit of the event by not only having his head shaved but also by picking up the razor and shaving the heads of his Police Ten 7 television production team.

Mr Bell said Operation Bald on the Beat was yet another example of police helping their community.

"Far too often police are in the headlines for allegations like rape and assault in Whakatane police cells but 99 per cent of the time your police are working their guts out for their community and they should be appreciated for it."

Police minister Annette King said the money raised was a huge amount for a small community.

"I think it's fantastic to see New Zealand police involved in this way ... you do a good job and you are appreciated."

The final fundraising tally will be known early next week.