Police have released the names of two people involved in a fatal water incident off the coast of Northland earlier this month.
Jason Paul Wharerau, 11, died in the incident, while his brother-in-law Ethan Gordon James Neels, 23, remained missing after their boat was reported overdue on November 14.
An air and sea search was launched after the 17-foot vessel failed to return to Pataua South, east of Whangārei, following a fishing trip.
The vessel and Wharerau’s body were discovered on November 15, and despite extensive search efforts by police, search and rescue teams, Coastguard and the Royal New Zealand Navy, Neels has not yet been located.
Police said while the search had been scaled back, search and rescue teams continue to sweep the sea and shoreline “in the hope of bringing Ethan home to his whānau”.
“Inquiries into this tragic incident continue, and Jason’s death will be referred to the Coroner.”
In a statement, Jason’s whānau described him as the youngest in his family and a “precious taonga” who was “clever, cheeky, loving, and full of wairua”.
“To us, he carried the spirit, curious, brave, and dearly cherished. His sudden passing has left a gap in our whakapapa that will be felt for generations.”
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The whānau expressed deep gratitude for the aroha and support shown by hapū, the Pataua community, Coastguard, Search and Rescue, Police, the Royal New Zealand Navy, Surf Lifesaving, and all who assisted.
They also acknowledged the pain experienced by Neels’ family, saying he was more than Jason’s brother-law and “woven into his partner’s whānau through aroha and whanaungatanga”.
“Ethan’s partner has suffered the unbearable loss of both her younger brother and her beloved, in one tragic moment.
“We ask that Aotearoa holds our whānau gently in your karakia, in your thoughts, and in your hearts as we navigate this profound loss together.”
Neels’ family also thanked police, search and rescue, and Coastguard crews for their support.
“Thank you also to all the community and Jason’s whānau for their love and support through this time. It brings us peace that Ethan found love and support from a beautiful whānau.”
