10 September 2013
Here's another one of those cases that make you realise there is some hope for mankind - and in this case, especially womankind!
I can think of some tough people and have known a few, and some of them are women, but when it comes to toughness, I wouldn't be surprised if Amber Kani gets banned from entering the Tough Girl contest on the grounds that her giant tungsten balls disqualify her. She isn't just a woman, she's the real superwoman!
Now, there are very few men in the country who would stand up to a violent criminal in the midst of a killing rage, but it took one glance at a cop's head being kicked to spur Amber Kani into action.
Physically pushing a much larger dangerously enraged male is not a recommended plan for women, but it didn't stop Amber. She pushed the attacker away and stopped him kicking the unconscious policeman, then proceeds to scream for help while helping him breathe.
There is no doubt that Sergeant Tate would have become the 30th Kiwi cop to be killed by a criminal, but for the outstanding bravery of Amber Kani.
The New Zealand Cross must be awarded to Amber. It is equivalent to a Victoria Cross and has only been awarded twice since its inception in 1990. Amber Kani's actions demand it be awarded to her; there has never been a greater example of civilian bravery in New Zealand, all the more outstanding because it involved saving a policeman's life.
Amber Kani, I salute you!
Copyright © Alan Charman