Senior Constable Jacob Schriek, who died after collapsing during the Motatapu Challenge mountain bike race near Wanaka on March 14, was farewelled in an emotional service during which friends, colleagues and family all spoke about the man who was more than just a country police officer.
Tears flowed and laughter echoed around the Riversdale Community Centre, which was packed with more than 1000 people.
More than 100 others stood outside, watching and listening to the service via a TV screen and sound system.
Representatives from the New Zealand Police, including senior managers, judicial system representatives, dozens of police officers and members of local and Southland emergency services turned out in full uniform.
A New Zealand flag was draped across his coffin.
Officers formed a solemn guard of honour for Snr Const Schriek before the service, conducted by the Rev Chris Rodgers.
Nearly two hours after it started, the tributes were still flowing as people reflected on Snr Const Schriek's life, not just in the police force, but as a champion cyclist, active search and rescue official, golfer and dedicated father and husband.
Mr Rodgers told the gathering Riversdale had lost its "watchman".
"It's natural to feel sadness at this time, but we are really here to celebrate the life of the man."
And so they did.
Snr Const Schriek's oldest son, Chris, was first and he spoke of the man behind the uniform - the father and husband who enjoyed holidays at Kingston and took an active interest in his children's lives .
Mr Rodgers, on behalf of the wider community, thanked the family for "sharing him with the public".
Snr Const Schriek's father, Jacob, talked about his son's star-like quality, saying he was "born with an optimistic spirit and [had] a sense of adventure from a very early age."
Others spoke about a man who demonstrated a sense of humour at all times, possessed a quirky smile, loved life, adored his family, treasured his career and was addicted to cycling.
One speaker recalled Jacob Schriek's unselfish actions after a kayaking tragedy at Waikaia in 2006.
A British man who had been kayaking with two friends drowned, leaving his friends without any support in a foreign country.
Snr Const Schriek took both men to his house and supported them through the next few days.
His efforts brought him a police district commander's citation.
Speakers also said his wife, Debbie, deserved high praise for her support and contribution.
