Tributes are pouring in for a New Zealand-born soldier who was killed in action during the Hamas militant attack on Israel.
Adam Agmon spent his early years in Wellington while his Israeli parents supported youth within the local Jewish community, family friend Gidon Silverman said. When Agmon was aged 3 or 4, the family moved back to Israel.
"Adam was very much an innocent soul but one full of life and always wanting to do the right thing," Silverman told 1News.
He said that attribute was influenced by his parents ongoing involvement in the community.
Silverman lived with Agmon's family in Wellington as a university student when he was looking for a flat.
"I was like a big bro, they were family to me. They left a mark with everyone," he said.
Silverman said Agmon's death has "left a huge hole."
He said the 21-year-old was buried yesterday in Misgav Cemetery.
Silverman spoke to Agmon's father Oren who showed "incredible strength as a father who had just lost his son" but what had happened was starting to sink in.
"The emotion became very real when he talked about New Zealand, his love and connection for the country.
"They have such a love of New Zealand, called it their homeland," Silverman said.
He said Oren and his sons had talked about having a boys trip to New Zealand. Now Oren has talked about having his son there in spirit if they return.
Agmon played soccer at a representative club level but his favourite sports team was the All Blacks.
"He would name all the players, also America's Cup, he had watched the All Blacks versus Uruguay game and planned to watch the Ireland game," Silverman said.
"Last time I saw them (in 2008) they were wearing the Silver Fern or Kiwi on their clothes."
He said Agmon, his brother Yahel and dad Oren all had a Silver Fern tattooed on their lower leg.
A post made on Facebook, reportedly at the request of his family, said: "His loved ones asked to spread his story among rugby fans."
All Blacks fullback Beauden Barrett commented on the post saying: "Rest in peace Adam. Thinking of his family and friends at this difficult time. Thank you for your support, we will do our best to make him proud. BB.'
Prime Minister Chris Hipkins said he was aware of reports of Agmon's death but couldn't share any information.
He shared his sympathies to the families of all affected by the conflict in Gaza and Israel.
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