Family members of a man who died in when a boat capsized in the Coromandel say they are still grieving, but that it is important to thank those who helped during the incident in early January.
Pauanui Beach. Photo: Tess Brouncker
Police and Maritime NZ are still investigating the incident at Pauanui on 5 January.
Five people were on board during the fatal incident and two remain in hospital.
"We are grieving the loss of a husband, father and grandfather who loved the sea and spending time with his family," the family said in a statement.
"We are focusing all our energies on supporting our two very young family members in hospital, and each other. Our family has been inundated with support and we are grateful for this.
"It is important we take the time now to thank the people who helped our family on 5 January at Pauanui. This includes the Surf Life Savers and other emergency service responders.
"We want to acknowledge the incredible job they did on the day and we know they too will have been greatly affected by this. Our young family members continue to receive wonderful care in Starship Children's Hospital and we want to extend our appreciation to the hospital staff.
"Our family will now await the outcomes of the current investigations so we have a full and accurate understanding of why this happened. We understand people are both concerned and interested but we would like to ask for complete privacy at this time."
Police findings will be provided to the Coroner.
