The family of policewoman Senior Sergeant Lyn Fleming joined police at the front of a community candlelight vigil at the Church Steps on Friday evening.
The 62-year-old was allegedly run down by a driver in the early hours of New Year’s Day in Buxton Square Carpark.
Nelson police staff and emergency services were applauded as they walked up and gathered on the steps to face the crowd.
Roughly 1000 people had gathered in the steady rain, which Nelson Bays area commander Steve Collins told the crowd was indicative of how everyone is feeling.
They were joined by members of Lyn’s family, who broke down as the crowd sang Amazing Grace.
"Lyn was great with people, well respected, protective... and fiercely loyal," Steve said.
"Part of us is missing, Lyn was that part."
He thanked Nelson for their support.
"We need it now more than ever."
Celtic Pipe Band pipe major Callum Gilchrist also piped a song to the gathering.
The crowd then parted to allow officers to leave as the hundreds applauded them. They were followed Lyn's family and Tasman District commander Superintendent Tracey Thompson.
Many of those gathered then made their way to Buxton Square Carpark to place flowers and candles at the scene of the fatal incident.
