A New South Wales police officer has tragically passed away while on a rafting trip to New Zealand’s South Island.

31-year-old Joshua Paroci was killed in a whitewater rafting accident on Saturday in Queenstown.

NSW Child Abuse and Sex Crimes Squad Commander, Detective Superintendent John Kerlatec has paid tribute to Mr Paroci.

“It’s a tragic loss in New South Wales Police but equally so for his family.

“He’s a very caring and loving husband, father, son, and brother to a very loving family.”

Detective Superintendent Kerlatec says Mr Paroci had taken on some of the “toughest jobs” and was devoted to helping those “who couldn’t help themselves”.

“He’s going to be sadly missed.

“He’s one of the team, he was a go-getter, he didn’t take a backwards step.”

Click PLAY below for Detective Superintendent John Kerlatec’s tribute