The soldier who drowned in the Manuwatū River while trying to rescue his dog is being remembered as a ‘talented young man’. 

Police found the body of New Zealand Defence force Gunner Nikau Minhinnick Gill on Wednesday evening. 

Emergency services were called to Ahimate Park around 1.35pm after reports a man walking his dog had fallen into the Manuwatū River. 

Chief of Army, Major General Rose King said on Facebook, Gill was a talented young man, and a highly respected member of 16th Field Regiment’s 161 Battery in Linton. 

NZ Defence Force Army Gunner Nikau Minhinnick Gill drowned after he fell into the Manawatū River. Emergency services were called to Ahimate Park around 1.35pm. Photo / NZDF 

“In what was a tragic accident on Saturday, he entered the Manawatu River in an attempt to rescue his dog and was swept away,” King said. 

She said the grief of his loss is being felt across Ngāti Tūmatauenga and the wider New Zealand Defence Force. 

According to the post, Commanding Officer 16th Field Regiment LTCOL Brent Morris described Gill as an “outstanding young man and a valued member of both the regiment and Ngāti Tūmatauenga”. 

Gill joined the Army in March 2021 and then with 16th Field Regiment in June of the same year. 

“Our thoughts are with his whānau, friends, comrades and his wider community as they come to terms with their loss in such tragic circumstances,” said King. 

He was awarded the Covid-19 Response Recognition Award in September 2021 and the New Zealand Defence Service Medal Regular Clasp in March 2024. 

He was also awarded a United States Army Achievement Medal in December 2023 for his performance at the Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Centre. 

King wanted to thank the New Zealand Police and other agencies, as well as members of 1st (New Zealand) Brigade who volunteered their time and resources as part of the search efforts. 

New Zealand Defence Force personnel have been assisting in the search for the missing soldier near the Manawatu River. Pictured is Bombardier Bronson Lum preparing to move site with the 16th Field Regiment from Linton. 

“It is never an easy task to do, let alone when the person you’re looking for is one of your own,” she said. 

“Gunner Minhinnick Gill will always be remembered by those who served alongside him. Ake Ake Kia Kaha. Forever and ever be strong.” 

“Police National Dive Squad, Search and Rescue, a Swift Water Rescue boat, kayaks, drones, a helicopter and numerous other volunteers including the missing man’s Defence Force colleagues have participated in the search for the man,” he said. 

Gill’s body has since been reunited with his family. 

“Police extend our condolences to the man’s family and friends during this difficult time and are being provided with support,” said Gurney. 

“On behalf of police, I want to express our appreciation to everyone involved in the effort to bring this man home, especially his family members and colleagues. 

The death is not believed to be suspicious and has been referred to the Coroner.