Farewell Constable Elliot, New Zealand police's official guinea pig

New Zealand's most iconic police guinea pig recruit has passed away.

Constable Elliot passed away on Sunday, after four and a half years on the planet.

He was laid to rest in the full police attire, with a pint sized police hat and police vest.

"He was a chilled-out relaxed little fella who would curl up in a ball on your lap like a cat, but was brave enough to face up to bigger animals thinking he was a dog," said New Zealand Police in a Facebook post.

"Four feet in heaven -- we will miss you little guy."

The cause of Elliot's passing was not stated.

New Zealand citizens mourned his death online.

Constable Elliot first shot to fame earlier this year in May, when he was spotted promoting safe driving around schools.

RIP Constable, you will be missed.