In the early hours of New Year’s Day 2025, Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming of the Nelson Police District, alongside another officer, was struck by a vehicle while on duty at Buxton Square, Nelson. Tragically, Ssgt Fleming succumbed to her injuries and passed away the same day. Aged 62, she was the first female police officer in New Zealand to lose her life in the line of duty.
In honour of her service and sacrifice, New Zealand Police Commissioner Richard Chambers called for a nationwide silence on 15th January. Police stations and community service centres across the country observed a minute’s silence. Additionally, police flags were flown at half-mast until the end of the week as a tribute to her bravery.
On the day of the memorial event, Area Commander Inspector Rodney Honan of Counties Manukau East and Senior Sergeant Anson LIN visited FGS Auckland to express their gratitude to the Temple team for participating in the remembrance ceremony. Abbess Manshin of FGS NZ arranged for a memorial plaque to be placed in the Main Shrine in tribute to Ssgt Fleming. Abbess led the team in reciting the Heart Sutra and reading A Prayer for Police Officers, written by the Founder, Venerable Master Hsing Yun.
Inspector Honan expressed his heartfelt appreciation to Abbess Manshin and the Temple team for their continued support of the New Zealand Police and their care for police officers’ mental and emotional well-being. He acknowledged the invaluable comfort and strength provided by the Temple during times of difficulty and challenge.
Abbess Manshin emphasised that the safety and well-being of New Zealanders are made possible by the dedication and silent sacrifices of officers who steadfastly uphold their duties. The loss of Ssgt Fleming is a great tragedy for New Zealand society. Through the Buddhist chanting ceremony, the Temple hopes to offer spiritual support, ensuring that she may find peace and fearlessness on her journey beyond and, in time, return to serve the human world once more.