Surf Life Saving New Zealand recognises death at Marine Parade, Napier

On February 21, 2020, at around 3.40pm, emergency services responded to reports of a child being swept out to sea at Marine Parade, Napier.

Two Police constables, a 27-year-old man and 30-year-old woman, who are also Surf Lifeguards, entered the water and attempted to reach the child.

The Coastguard, Napier Port, and the Hawke's Bay Rescue Helicopter also responded.

Sadly, the child, Marama Te Pou, aged 7, died at the scene.

Our thoughts are with Marama’s family and friends at this time.

The incident happened at a section of the beach that is not patrolled by Surf Lifeguards, and occurred outside of patrol hours.

Surf Life Saving would like to acknowledge the volunteers and emergency services who attended.

The death will be referred to the Coroner. Surf Life Saving New Zealand’s Coastal Safety Team will also work with emergency services to establish the circumstances.

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For more information, please contact:

Melanie Louden
Surf Life Saving NZ
Media and Communications Manager
021 757 433
melanie.louden@surflifesaving.org.nz