Gazza in late 2013 with his handler, Constable Josh Robertson. Photo / Supplied
Shortly after the news was made public, New Zealand Police confirmed the dog was Gazza and wrote: ". Our thoughts are with his handler and his family."
Dog Training Centre national coordinator, Inspector Todd Southall, said Gazza and Mr Robertson had made an effective team in Wellington tracking, searching and catching offenders.
"Gazza was a four-year-old German Shepherd, bred at the Police Dog Training Centre at Trentham. He graduated as an operational dog in late 2013 with his handler, Constable Josh Robertson, and both have served Police bravely since that time," he said.
Dog Squad NZ posted: "Awful news today, Wellington Police dog Gazza was shot and killed at a Porirua address this morning. Our thoughts are with his handler Josh and the Delta section's around the country at this very sad time. RIP Gazza, you were a top dog, and a pleasure to work with!"
Members of the public also expressed their condolences.
One Facebook user wrote: "Such a sad event, you amazing dog."
Another person wrote: "What a beautiful dog just doing his job. No one has the right to hurt or kill any animal."
Meanwhile Feilding Community Patrol send its regards to Mr Robertson and his family. "To all Delta Units especially Josh and his family. Our prayers go to you all."
In April last year, Gazza was praised for the part he played in tracking and capturing a fleeing burglar.
The man led police on a 3km chase through the outskirts of Wellington after he was interrupted while trying to rob a superette.
Gazza traced his scent through properties and into the bush where police finally caught up with the offender, Fairfax reported.
Constable Robertson ordered the man to stop and when he didn't Gazza was set loose. The man was arrested after a tussle with the dog.
Gazza was left with a sore neck and twisted ears after he was choked by the man during the tussle but recovered from his injuries.
