Media release

24 June 2012

NZ Sailor Dies in Rarotonga

The New Zealand Defence Force sailor who died in Rarotonga yesterday has been named as Able Seaman Combat Specialist William Paratini Delamere, aged 22.

The accident occurred at 0045 on Friday 22 June (Cook Island time) when ASCS Delamere was involved in a motor scooter accident while on leave.

The accident occurred adjacent to the ships berth and personnel from OTAGO were First Aid responders and accompanied ASCS Delamare to Rarotonga Hospital where he was sadly pronounced dead at 0130.

An investigation into the event is being conducted by local police.

Maritime Component Commander Commodore John Martin said, “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 Able Seaman William Delamere.”

“Next of kin have been informed and our priority is to provide comfort and support to the family and shipmates.”

Able Seaman Delamere was serving in the Navy’s offshore patrol vessel, HMNZS OTAGO which is currently alongside Rarotonga while operating in the Pacific conducting maritime patrols with regional authorities.

“This is a sad day and, on behalf of the entire New Zealand Defence Force, especially the Navy, I extend my deepest sympathies to the family, colleagues and friends of William.”

The NZ Defence Force has notified the immediate families of all sailors involved and is providing assistance to them during this very difficult time.

ENDS