Police dog Gage farewelled

The police dog shot dead in Christchurch this week was farewelled this afternoon.

Senior Constable Bruce Lamb, his family and other police said goodbye to Gage in a private ceremony.

The dog was killed when Mr Lamb and colleague, Constable Mitchel Alatalo, were shot after entering a dwelling in suburban Phillipstown.

Both men, taken to hospital, were discharged yesterday and have made good recoveries.

A police statement said the short service was a chance for Mr Lamb to say a final goodbye and words to his "courageous good mate who has worked alongside him for the last six years".

The farewell was also attended by handlers from Customs, Corrections and Aviation Security Service who have strong ties with police dog sections throughout New Zealand.

Gage, pedigree name Trentham Gage, was the 23rd police dog killed on duty.

"Gage was a dog with character who was strong and keen to work," said Sergeant Alastair Sim, acting head of the Christchurch police dog section.

Mr Sim added said Mr Lamb and colleagues appreciated the many messages they had received.

"We know that people would have liked to attend the ceremony but this had to be a quiet moment for Bruce, his family and for those of us who worked alongside Gage."

Gage's body, wrapped in a New Zealand police flag for the service, will be cremated.

- NZPA