A man has died in hospital after a sand dune collapsed on him at west Auckland’s Muriwai Beach on Saturday.
28-year-old Kane Watson became trapped under the dune around 5pm. He was airlifted to Auckland City Hospital in critical condition but died this morning, police said.
Shaquille, Kane’s sister, said he was “my best friend and my favourite person”.
Shaquille’s friend, Kristalle Tayler, said between Kane and his partner, the couple had four children, with a fifth on the way in January.
“He was so excited about their new baby,” she said.
“He was building a life with his partner, he was the best dad and came into his own when he became a dad.”
A Givealittle page set up by Tayler to help Kane’s family said Watson was a father who had been digging and playing with his kids when the accident occurred.
The page said the family had been enjoying a “fun afternoon” which “turned into tragedy”.
“In seconds, laughter turned to panic as his family witnessed the unimaginable unfold before their eyes. Despite the incredible efforts of rescue teams and doctors, Kane tragically passed away from his injuries,” the page said.
“Kane was a much-loved son, brother, partner and, above all, a devoted father. His greatest joy was being with his children — not only his own, but also the kids he cared for and loved as if they were his own.
“Family was always at the very centre of who he was. Most heartbreakingly, his youngest child, due early next year, will never get to meet him, but will grow up hearing stories of the incredible man who loved them before they were born.”
It said Kane’s family had been left “shattered” by the accident.
“To have witnessed such a tragedy and now face life without him is almost unbearable.”
It said alongside their grief, they are also facing the financial strain of funeral costs and related expenses.
“Kane’s absence leaves a hole that can never be filled, but with your kindness his family can be carried through the darkest days ahead.”
Response ‘immense’, says family friend
Tayler said the response to the Givealittle had been “immense”.
“We are absolutely blown away.
“We’re just trying to support his mum, partner, kids and sister as much as possible.
“We’re trying to create a space where they can focus on Kane, and pick up the pieces as we go.
“We have exceeded our goal for the Givealittle in four hours. I’m just beyond grateful the community have come together to support the family. It means so much.”
Police said an inquiry into Watson’s death would be carried out on behalf of the Coroner.
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