Dead diver much-loved ‘free spirit’

The diver who died near Seatoun, Wellington, on Christmas Eve was beloved family man Gary Hibbs.

He died on the anniversary he shared with his new partner.

Emergency services rushed to the eastern side of the Miramar Peninsula about 4pm, where the 58-year-old was pulled from the water unconscious, according to police. Attempts to resuscitate him were unsuccessful.

Hibbs’ son — also named Gary — spoke to the Herald about his family’s shock at the death. “Everyone is in disbelief. Shocked. Saddened.”

Gary Hibbs snr was “known for his selflessness”, his son said.

Born in Christchurch, Hibbs raised his children in Levin and lived on and off in Wellington before moving to Upper Hutt more than a year ago.

“Dad was one of those people that lived everywhere,” his son said. “He was a free spirit, roamer, traveller.”

But his love for his family, especially his three grandkids, was what he would be remembered for.

The 58-year-old had been diving since he was a teen. “He taught me how to dive,” his son said.

The family were “so humbled” by all the love and support offered.

“We all knew he was pretty special. But you know just seeing people we don’t even know sharing stories about him . . . it just blows us away.”

Police said the death has been referred to the coroner.