The parents of the children who got in to difficulty in water at Browns Bay yesterday afternoon say they are very grateful to the many people who gave assistance in the rescue of their children.
Police have spent the day interviewing witnesses to establish what happened. The three children, who had been playing with two boogie boards, were seen struggling in the water and members of the public went to their aid.
A young boy died at the beach, his twin sister survived the ordeal and is back with her parents. Another teenage sibling remains in North Shore Hospital on life support, in a critical condition.
Area Commander, Inspector Mike Hill, says, "While police would normally release the name of the young boy who died, due to the circumstances the family is facing and at their request, his name will not be released yet. I would also ask that all media respect the family’s request for privacy at this agonising time," says Inspector Hill.
The teenager and another older woman were both revived at the beach. The older woman was not related to the children and her role at the beach is still unclear. She could have been part of the rescue; police hope witnesses will help establish what happen.
The mother of the children has asked police to pass on her deepest thanks to the people who came to the aid of her children.
She says, "I was surrounded by people who cared, as each did all they could in their own way to help. Some people were doing CPR, others were clearing spaces, some were praying, they were all caring at a time of tragedy, the best of the caring New Zealand nature came out and is very much appreciated."
She says, "It was like being surrounded in a big hug, those people on the beach really cared, and showed it in a time of extreme distress."
Victim Support is working with the family and also those who helped rescue the children as well as some witnesses.
Issued by Jayson Rhodes
Police Communications Manager
North Shore/Waitakere/Rodney District
027 281 0271
For Hospital inquiries please contact Caroline Mackersey, General Manager Communications, Waitemata DHB. 021 829 802