Thousands expected for slain officer's funeral

Police are expecting a large crowd of several thousand to attend the funeral for Senior Constable Len Snee in Napier tomorrow.

Police from around New Zealand are expected to attend, as well as 8 police representatives from different states of Australia.

Prime Minister John Key, Police Minister Judith Collins and Maori Affairs Minister Dr Pita Sharples will be attending, along with several Opposition MPs and local mayors.

Senior Constable Len Snee will be carried into the Municipal Theatre by family members. His casket will be carried out of the theatre by his police colleagues.

Police will form a guard of honour along Tennyson St as the funeral procession leaves. There will be a large contingent of police dogs from around the country also present.

The funeral cortege will travel along Tennyson St and turn right into Marine Parade. There will be a private cremation to follow.

Barriers will be in place along Tennyson St, but the public is welcome to stand behind them.

Police Commissioner Howard Broad will be attending, along with members of the national police executive.

While there will be many police staff wishing to attend the funeral, there will also be a large number of Len's friends and rugby colleagues from around the country who are expected to attend.