A Kiwi on holiday in the Philippines has been shot dead after trying to intervene in a robbery.
Filipino police have named Nicholas Stacey, 34, as the man who was attacked by unidentified assailants riding motorcycles.
Police said Stacey was shot in the chest while out walking with his girlfriend shortly after midnight on Sunday (local time) in the city of Makati in the Metro Manila region.
Local media ABS CBN reports the couple was approached by two men on a motorcycle before one of the pair pointed a firearm at Stacey's girlfriend.
The outlet added local police said the "back rider alighted and pointed an unknown type of firearm to the witness and declared a hold-up while the rider parked the said motorcycle a few meters away".
"The victim then intervened and tried to grab the assailant's weapon. But the suspect fired the gun and hit the victim's left [side] chest," the media outlet reported.
The offenders then allegedly fled the scene stealing the phone and wallet of Stacey's girlfriend, police said.
The shooting has sparked a major manhunt for the offenders, with NCCRPO chief Gen. Jonnel Estomo ordering the Makati City Police Station to lead the search for the two suspects.
ABS CBN reports Stacey's remains were brought to a funeral home in Taguig City for autopsy.
Stacey's family told Newshub in a statement, "We are deeply saddened at the tragic loss of Nick. At this time, the family are asking for privacy while we grieve".
A Givealittle page has been created with the money going towards the "cost of transporting Nick home and the other cost involved in the process".
"The loss of such a young, kindhearted, selfless and loving man, is absolutely devastating," the family said.
Over $6000 had been raised through the Givealittle page as of Wednesday morning.
Stacey was described as a selfless man, who worked hard within the community while always putting others first.
"He loved to serve and was a well-loved kid's church leader, set up and hospitality team member for their evening service, and was always first to volunteer when help was needed," the family said.
"He was a key member of the young adult's community and the Koala Kitchen life group."
A Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade spokesperson told Newshub the New Zealand Embassy in Manila is providing consular assistance to Stacey's family.
