Police are now in a position to name the man who died in flood waters in Bracken Street, near Sladdon Park, Petone on Thursday.
He was 80-year-old Dr Paul Hill from Karori.
Hutt Valley Area Commander Sean Hansen says it was a tragic incident. “Our thoughts are with Dr Hill’s family at this difficult time”.
Police responded to a call from a member of the public who saw Dr Hill’s car submerged in the Sladden Park area late yesterday morning. Police then went to the scene and located the car which still had keys in the ignition.
Police then checked registration details and contacted Dr Hill’s family who advised he had not arrived as expected for a family event.
Once the high flood levels had subsided, two officers (who are trained as police divers) located Dr Hill’s body a short distance from his vehicle late afternoon.
The cause of death will be determined by the coroner. Dr Hill’s family have asked that media please respect their privacy at this very difficult time.
Police are continuing to work closely with other agencies to focus on the safety of motorists and residents in flood affected areas.
ENDS
Issued by Amy Stewart-Badger, Media Team PNHQ on 021 192 2906
Statement on behalf of Dr Paul Hill’s family:
“Paul was born in India, brought up in Ireland and thought of New Zealand as his home. He was a doctor and physiologist who taught at Auckland University Medical School for many years. He was a climber, a traveller, had an active and enquiring mind and a life-long love of learning new things. He took great delight in walking the hills of Wellington with his beloved dog, enjoyed his membership of the Alpine Club, and shortly after his eightieth birthday completed a solo tramp of the Kepler Track.
He was a very loving and much loved husband, father and grandfather, brother and uncle, and will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
Our family wishes to express our gratitude to all those who assisted in the search, and for the kindness and professionalism of the police.
We ask that the media please respect our privacy at this most difficult time.”
