A sailor serving on HMNZS Otago has died in scooter accident in Rarotonga.
The New Zealand Defence Force on Saturday named the sailor as Able Seaman Combat Specialist William Paratini Delamere, 22.
The accident occurred shortly before 1am Cook Islands time on Friday (11pm NZT). Personnel from HMNZS Otago treated the sailor and accompanied him to Rarotonga Hospital where he was pronounced dead at 1.30am.
Local police are investigating the accident, which occurred adjacent to the ship's berth. The Otago is in the Pacific conducting maritime patrols.
"We are saddened by this loss and, on behalf of the entire New Zealand Defence Force, I extend my deepest sympathies to the family, colleagues and friends of the sailor," maritime component commander Commodore John Martin said.
HMNZS Otago is an offshore patrol vessel with a total of 79 personnel, according to the navy website.
Defence Minister Jonathan Coleman extended his condolences to Able Seaman Delamere's family, friends and crewmates.
"The tragic loss of this young life will be a big shock to all those close to William Delamere," Dr Coleman said.
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