The man dubbed the Sheriff of Ngawi says rural New Zealand needs more police support.
The idea of a volunteer rural constabulary is back before Parliament.
Labour's obliged to investigate the idea, as part of its coalition agreements with New Zealand First.
Garth Gadsby made headlines when he was charged with recklessly discharging a firearm in 2006, for shooting at a car burglars were trying to escape in.
He told Kerre McIvor rural New Zealand needs more support.
He says it's a good idea if people are willing to do it, as long as they don't take it too far.
Documents obtained by 1 NEWS show the police have major concerns with the proposal and are advising the Government not to go ahead with it.