The Easter weekend ended in tragedy for one Kiwi family, after their 13-year-old boy drowned in a popular swimming hole.
Lilatoni ‘Toni’ Vetemotu lost his life when he slipped into deep waters while swimming with family. An older relative apparently tried to save him, but was forced to let go.
The 13-year-old’s body was found late Monday night after the National Dive Squad was called in.
After this latest death, there have been calls for Auckland Council to shut or cordon off the falls to prevent further drownings, though there are warnings up at the site.
This latest incident at Hunua Falls comes just nine days after 17-year-old Peter Lakopo drowned at the same spot. In total there have been 18 deaths at the falls, which are located in the Hunua Ranges southeast of Auckland.
The sister of victim Lakopo, who drowned at the falls on March 19 despite the best efforts of two tourists, said last night:
“Not again…a week after and this happens. This place should have been shut down years ago!”
Currently there is a sign at the falls warning visitors that it is unsafe for swimming and that there are no lifeguards available.
The spot is apparently unsafe for swimmers due to sharp drops in depth and strong currents.
Mace Ward, General Manager for Parks, Sport & Recreation at Auckland Council said: “Our thoughts are with the family during this tragedy”.
“We will work with the police and Watersafe NZ on their investigations and on reviewing the site.”
On Tuesday Toni Vetemotu’s school, Tuakau College in south Auckland, paid tribute to the year 9 student, issuing this statement:
“It is with deepest sadness that we inform you of the passing of Toni Vetemotu, a Yr 9 student at Tuakau College.
Toni is the 13 year old who lost his life at the Hunua Falls over Easter.
We ask that everyone respect his family with privacy at this time.
Students will be well supported at school in the coming days. Our guidance counsellor Paul Heta will be leading this support. Any queries can be directed to Paul or one of the Senior Leadership Team.”
