‘He aituā!’ – Homicide victim’s death a tragedy, whānau says
Friends and relatives have shared memories and messages of love after the killing of Hāwera man Whatitiri Whakaruru.
Whakaruru, 26, died on Monday night as a result of a disorder-related incident at a Gladstone St property in the South Taranaki town.
He had suffered serious injuries at an accommodation complex made up of private rentals and emergency housing.
Police said in a statement on Wednesday that a 46-year-old Hāwera man had been arrested in relation to the death, which was being investigated as a homicide.
Whakaruru’s older sister, Courtney Ruru, said she had never thought she would be sharing the news of the death of her little brother.
“Heavy on the mind today my brother,” she said in a social media post published on Tuesday.
In a Facebook post, Carol Turahui said Whakaruru would never be forgotten.
“Much love to you, little cousin. Pain is real now. Fly high with all our loved ones who have gone before you.
“Gone forever but never forgotten. Held tight to the heart, cousin.”
Turahui said she still had childhood memories of Whakaruru, and described his nature as cheeky, smart and funny.
In another post, Te Wai Mitchell said she felt the loss of Whakaruru at such a young age. “It is sad when kaumātua pass. But really sad when our young ones pass.”
On Tuesday, whānau spokesperson Ruby Tarr shared an update on social media.
“It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the sudden and unexpected passing of our beloved son, brother, uncle and cousin. t is all still very surreal, raw and tender.”
Tarr said the death was a tragedy: “He aituā!”
In separate posts, friends from the gaming community also remembered Whakaruru, known to some as “Whatz”.
“Can’t forget that smile, bro,” Jordan Whareaitu said.
A police spokesperson said no charges had yet been laid against the man who was arrested.
“No court appearance has been scheduled just yet.”