Soldier killed in training exercise named

Sergeant Wayne Taylor. Photo supplied

A special forces member who died during a maritime counter-terrorism training exercise off Coromandel Peninsula today was a married father of four.

He was Sergeant Wayne Taylor. 

A call came in from a vessel near Channel Island about 6.30am and an Auckland Rescue Helicopter was dispatched to the scene shortly after this morning, a spokesperson said.

Maritime New Zealand said it was reportedly a "medical incident" but the Defence Force announced this afternoon Sgt Taylor died during an exercise. He fell about 5m during the training exercise, witnesses have reported.

A police spokeswoman said police were made aware of a death and would be making inquiries on behalf of the Coroner.

In a statement this afternoon, Chief of Army Major General Peter Kelly said Sgt Taylor would be remembered as ''an outstanding soldier, leader, father, family man, and friend to many, as well as being an all-round top bloke''.

He was a consummate professional, who was known for his dedication and reliability – always upholding our core values in every endeavour.”

Sgt Taylor served in East Timor and Afghanistan after joining the Regular Force in October 1997. 

“I know that his family, friends and workmates will be keenly feeling the loss of a husband, father and friend. My thoughts are with them all over the coming days and weeks,” Maj Gen Kelly said.

His family were being supported by members of New Zealand Special Operations Force and the New Zealand Army.

The special operations force (NZSOF) is described by the defence force as "highly capable", and says it works to pre-empt threats to New Zealand domestically and aboard. The force includes the SAS.

In 2012, Private Michael Victor Ross from Kaitaia died during a training exercise at Lake Moawhango.

The Court of Inquiry found while his death was accidental, a lack of adherence to safety procedures contributed to Ross falling overboard and drowning.