First Cordon is a proud subsidiary of the GCSG security group and represents the convergence of industry leaders in law enforcement, technology and software development.
We offer security audits and assessments, training and development, and emergency response planning, as a well as a Threat Mitigation System™ (pending patent) that can pinpoint a threat and direct law enforcement straight to the source without any wasted time.
Our team combines expertise in cutting-edge technological innovation with over 30 years’ experience in law enforcement and military operations for both government and private security. This unique synergy allows us to deliver exceptional security solutions that meet the ever-changing needs of our clients.
Leadership
Chris Barker
President/Founder
Chris brings a wealth of frontline and investigative experience to his role, having served 21 years with the New Zealand Police as a Senior Sergeant leading teams focused on organised crime and high-risk response.
Chris Barker
Chris brings a wealth of frontline and investigative experience to his role, having served 21 years with the New Zealand Police as a Senior Sergeant leading teams focused on organised crime and high-risk response.
Drawing on his experience as a first responder during the 15 March Christchurch terror attacks, Chris developed a national training programme to enhance staff safety and tactical intelligence.
Chris was a trainer under the Australia and New Zealand Counter Terrorism Committee, delivering training across Australia and New Zealand focusing on supporting tactical teams to get a fast and accurate resolutions.
Focus Areas:
- Product Development
- Security
- Security Software Development
- System Architecture
- Cybersecurity Integration
- Technology Innovation
Garrit Van T Veen
President/Founder
Garrit combines tactical expertise with business acumen, shaped by his service as a New Zealand Police investigator and tactical response operator with an advanced certification in dignitary protection obtained in USA.
Garrit Van T Veen
Garrit combines tactical expertise with business acumen, shaped by his service as a New Zealand Police investigator and tactical response operator with an advanced certification in dignitary protection obtained in USA. Garrit is a specialist in emergency response protocols for high-risk environments, including schools and education facilities.
With 19 years as CEO of a commercial company prior, during and post joining the Police, Garrit brings both operational readiness and strategic business leadership. Widely respected for his ability to translate complex risk scenarios into actionable strategies, he works closely with leadership teams to embed resilience and safety into business operations.
Focus Areas:
- Tactical Response
- Strategic Security Planning
- Business Development
- Business Strategy
Claire Bennison
Risk & Compliance
Claire brings over 14 years of frontline experience with the New Zealand Police, where she was a first responder during the 15 March Christchurch terror attacks and a key leader in numerous high-stakes investigations.
Claire Bennison
Claire brings over 14 years of frontline experience with the New Zealand Police, where she was a first responder during the 15 March Christchurch terror attacks and a key leader in numerous high-stakes investigations. She became known as the dependable glue behind complex operations, successfully leading large investigative and tactical teams to resolution.
In the private sector, Claire rose to Health and Safety Manager for a leading industrial company, modernising systems and helping position the business among the top five in its category nationwide. Her calm authority and ability to unify teams around clear goals have made her a sought-after advisor across the commercial sector.
Focus Areas:
- Risk Assessment
- Health & Safety
- Policy Development
