Canterbury police will have almost 1000 staff after a major increase to the nationwide police force.
Canterbury has been allocated 121 new staff on top of its current 868-strong force in the staffing boost, which has been made possible by a $298.8 million budget increase.
Canterbury Police District Commander Superintendent John Price said the staffing increase would have a "positive impact" and allow police to focus on key demands and keep victims at the forefront.
"We have a fantastic police team in Canterbury who make a real difference. The addition of extra officers will ensure we can impact on crime and other calls for service and prevent harm across Canterbury."
National Police Commissioner Mike Bush said the extra staff would be dispersed across a range of roles around the country, with 1280 being put into the districts.
He said 200 of the new recruits would focus on gang and drug-related crimes.