John Cotter served with both the 5th and 7th Contingents in South Africa. He is remembered in 2 cemeteries - Ermelo and Wakkerstroom, and at present we do not know the reason. These are not memorials, but lists of those buried in that place. Steve Watt, in "In Memoriam" places his burial in Wakkerstroom, which is the information given in the official South African records. This does sound a little unlikely, Ermelo being closer to Hamelfontein, where he died. For completeness, both Central Memorials are shown.

His service record contains a letter (4th Jan 1902)  from Maj. Herbert Pilcher to the New Zealand Agency in Capetown - "Trooper Cotter joined the Vll from the Vth Regt. on the 15/5/01 , and was promoted to Sergt. On the 13th June last while in Rearguard at Hamelfontein, Ermelo District, Sergt. Cotter was shot - five bullets taking effect- and he died gallantly fighting".

"Mrs Cotter, of Hawea. has (says the Cromwell Argus) received a letter from Lieutenant Simson giving the following particulars regarding the death of her son, Sergeant Cotter, who was killed at Hamelfontein on June 13: — "Early in the day the squadron was detailed to patrol on the flank, and on the way to rejoin the column it was found necessary to 'stand by' to cover the retreat of another flanking party. Your poor boy was one of a party to line a ridge and keep back 100 Boers. The fight was of the keenest — each party fought most stubbornly, and at very close range. Throughout the contest Sergeant Cotter made himself conspicuous by the gallant manner in which he encouraged those near him; his keen desire to get his men into the best positions made him a mark for the enemy, and everyone sincerely regretted that, on the order to retire, such a brave fellow had to be left behind. The ambulance was at once sent for, but on reaching the spot the Boers informed the doctor that death must have been instantaneous. The body of your brave boy received a soldier's burial. The grave has been carefully marked, and a tombstone will be erected as soon as possible." Sergeant Cotter was next on the list for appointment to a lieutenancy when he was laid low. He was held in the greatest respect by his officers and comrades." [Otago Witness, Issue 2476, 28 August 1901, Page 26]