Police dog Gazza's legacy to live on

Gypsy, sister of slain police dog Gazza, and some of her litter of 11 puppies. They are 4.5 weeks old. Photo/Police Dog Trust

A litter of pups related to the police dog killed in last week's deadly armed siege in Porirua are now some of the most anticipated new recruits set to join police ranks.

The Central Police District have announced on Facebook they are eagerly expecting the arrival of a new police pup in a month's time.

The five-week-old German Shepherd is from litter 'K', one of 11 pups delivered by Gypsy, the sister of Gazza whose shooting sparked a 26-hour siege with gunman Pita Tekira last week.

As tributes continue to flow for the slain police dog Central District Police have posted they were looking forward to a "special new arrival" to help fight crime, making mention of its distinguished pedigree.

"In about a month a very special new arrival will be coming to Central District Police. We are getting a new Police dog Puppy.
"He or she is even more precious as they are the niece or nephew of GAZZA the Police dog who was killed last week," said the post.

The legacy has drawn public praise still reeling from the dog's death.

EmJay Dette posted: "Best tribute to her brother Gazza."

"Great to here the blood line is still there RIP GAZZA," wrote Kelvin Riddick.

Police were yet to choose which pup would eventually join the region's dog team but said the public would be able to watch it grow up and progress through a series of photos on the Facebook page.

In the meantime a competition was being held to name the pup. In accordance with protocol its name must start with the letter K.

Gazza was shot last Friday morning by Pita Tekira who was on the run after ditching his electronic monitoring bracelet.

It is believed Tekira took his own life sometime between Friday night and Saturday morning, bringing Porirua's 26-hour siege to an end.

A police spokeswoman said planning for a memorial service for Gazza was also underway.