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Two Children Die in Riverbank Collapse in Kawerau, New Zealand

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Tragedy on the Tarawera River: Two Children Die After Riverbank Collapse

On April 19, 2024, two children died after a riverbank collapsed on the Tarawera River in Kawerau, Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. A third child involved in the incident was able to free themselves. The deaths have been referred to the coroner, and local Māori authorities have placed a cultural prohibition on the river.

Incident Details

  • Date and Time: Approximately 11:30 AM local time, Friday, April 19, 2024.
  • Location: Northern side of the Tarawera River near Boyce Park in Kawerau.
  • Activity: A group of children had been fishing and playing on the riverbank when it gave way.
  • Identification: The two children who died were identified as Luti Maui Mafi, aged 11, and Pauly Lloyd, aged 10.

Emergency Response and Recovery

Emergency services, including police and Fire and Emergency New Zealand (FENZ), launched a rescue operation.

  • Two police officers swam across the river and attempted to dig for the children.
  • The two boys were located deceased a short time later.
  • Surf Life Saving New Zealand lifeguards assisted in transporting the boys and rescue personnel back across the river.

Acting Eastern Bay of Plenty Area Commander Inspector Phil Gillbanks stated that police and fire personnel did everything they could to locate the victims.

The deaths have been referred to the coroner.

Community and Official Statements

  • Families: The family of Luti Mafi described him in a statement as a "treasured and much-loved" family member and friend.
  • Schools: Both children were students. Tarawera High School and Kawerau Putauaki School confirmed the deaths and announced they would be closed on Monday, April 22, and Tuesday, April 23.
  • Community Groups: A local junior rugby club stated the boys were "active and valued members" of their community.
  • Local Government: Kawerau Mayor Faylene Tunui acknowledged the deaths, stating the community would support the families.

Cultural Response and Protocols

Following the incident, local Māori cultural protocols were observed.

  • Karakia: Local kaumātua (elders) performed karakia (prayers/incantations).
  • Rāhui: Tūwharetoa mai Kawerau ki te Tai placed a cultural rāhui (prohibition) on the Tarawera River. The rāhui prohibits activities such as fishing, swimming, and other recreational use of the river and will remain in effect until April 23, 2026.
  • Access for Respects: People wishing to pay respects are permitted to do so from the western side of the river near the Judo Club. Access is not permitted on the eastern side of the river.