Police have paid an emotional tribute to the young constable shot dead in Auckland on Friday, saying his death is the "ultimate sacrifice" for officers who work to keep the community safe.
Constable Matthew Hunt, 28, was killed on Friday during a routine traffic stop in Massey, west Auckland.
Assistant Commissioner Richard Chambers and Waitematā District Commander Superintendent Naila Hassan addressed the media on Sunday to pay their tributes to him. Hassan said Hunt mostly served in Orewa during his two-and-a-half years in the police.
"Matt is an outstanding police officer, he passionately expressed his desire to serve his community," she said through tears.
"He was killed serving his country, there is no higher price."
Hassan added he was highly respected by his peers.
"We're absolutely devastated by the loss of our colleague and our brother Matt. Matt's death is the ultimate sacrifice of a police officer working to keep our country safe."
Hassan said she visited Hunt's mum on Saturday who is dealing with "every parent's worst nightmare" - outliving their child.
A second officer was shot during Friday's shooting, and he is in a stable condition in hospital. A member of the public who was injured by a car in the incident is also in hospital.
Hassan said senior police officers visited the injured officer and he's dealing with mixed feelings. While he's grateful to be alive, he's "devastated" at the loss of his colleague and friend.
Iwi blessed Reynella Dr where Hunt was killed and a karakia was held. Chambers said police are "getting close" to reopening this street to the public.
A 24-year-old man accused of murdering Hunt appeared before the Waitakere District Court on Saturday morning via an audio-visual link. Several charges are laid against him, including murder, attempted murder and dangerous driving causing injury.
Police also caught a woman on Saturday morning, who is alleged to be an accessory to the murder of Hunt. Police say she is assisting them with enquiries and is due to appear in Waitakere District Court on Monday morning.
