Overview

• He was digging in a dune when it suddenly gave way, burying him headfirst for about 15 minutes as his children called for help, according to the Auckland Rescue Helicopter Trust.
• He was airlifted in critical condition to Auckland City Hospital and later died, with police confirming they are making enquiries on behalf of the coroner.
• A Givealittle page started by family friend Kristalle Tayler has raised more than NZD 16,000 as of Monday to help with funeral costs and family support.
• The fundraiser notes he was a devoted father and was expecting another child early next year.
• An academic warned that dunes can collapse in seconds and are extremely difficult to dig through, citing factors like erosion, vehicle or foot traffic and digging as potential triggers.