A community youth organisation that Kymani Hiley-Hetaraka was involved in has released a statement in response to her tragic passing.

The 13-year-old died after falling at Alpine Ice Sports Centre on Tuesday, while on a trip with Crossroads Youth with a Future.

Chair Shaun Stockman said “Crossroads Youth with a Future acknowledge that a tragic accident happened during an EOTC trip
on Tuesday 30th July at Alpine Ice involving a much-loved ākonga Kymani Hiley-Hetaraka who has partaken in our programme this year through Haeata Community Campus.

“Kymani was a loveable ākonga who had a beautiful heart and was well respected and cherished by the members of her Stay Real group.

“We are absolutely heartbroken, and Kymani will be greatly missed by all who were blessed to know her.

“We extend our sincere condolences to the Hiley-Hetaraka whānau as we continue to uphold you in our thoughts and prayers. We would also like to acknowledge the staff at Alpine Ice and thank Haeata Community Campus for the support they have been extending to our community.”

A Give a little page for her family has so far raised $16,547 donated by 533 people in 2 days.