Caring ‘Rah’ a free spirit
RANIERA Tamati has been remembered as a free-spirit and devoted family man who could make friends with anyone whose path he crossed.
The Coomera father, known as ‘Rah’, tragically died on Monday night.
He is survived by his partner April and two young daughters.
Many people on the Gold Coast have a story about Rah who was always out and about, helping to put a smile on people’s faces in the community by spreading the love.
He led the Haka on the Surfers Paradise beachfront following the Christchurch shootings on March 15.
Days later, on March 21, the self-described native healer and cleanser spent the day jiving to tribal tunes from a portable speaker strapped to his body, to bring “a little light” into the lives of people facing court, particularly those accused or convicted of cannabis possession.
Mr Tamati also helped the homeless and those less fortunate in the community.
A friend, Dion Tumata, said the community was devastated by Mr Tamati’s death.
“He left an impression on everyone he met,” he said.
“He was a shameless, passionate, free-spirited gogetter and a devoted family man.
“He was like a largerthan-life character. He would talk to anyone. He’d be the first person to give you a shirt if you needed it.
“We are looking at it in a positive view, that his journey will be continuing.”
Mr Tamati’s family and friends on the Gold Coast are fundraising to return his body and family to his native New Zealand.
Mr Tumata started a GoFundMe page yesterday, with 255 people raising more than $10,000 in a day. It is hoped $20,000 will be raised before the weekend.
“Him and his partner April have been really supportive towards me and my partner over the years. So when he passed away we wanted to do the same,” Mr Tumata said.
“We are raising money to send him back to New Zealand so he can continue his journey.”
Today Mr Tumata, friends and family of Rah will be washing car windows on Oxley Drive, Biggera Waters, between 3-6pm to raise money.
Billie Dees Burgers Beats & Beers will donate $2 to the family for every burger sold during the three hours.
To donate, visit: www.gofundme.com/fja49k-ranieratamati