A young child is believed to have died after sustaining dog bite injuries in the Bay of Plenty on Friday afternoon.
Police said they were alerted to the incident where two people sustained dog bite-related injuries in Katikati at about 2.50pm.
“One person was transported to the Katikati Medical Centre in a critical condition, where sadly they died a short time later,” a police spokesperson says.
A second person received moderate injuries and was transported to Tauranga Hospital, where they are still receiving treatment, police said.
Police said animal management staff have taken the dogs involved in the incident and are making inquiries on behalf of the coroner.
Hato Hone St John responded with one ambulance, rapid response unit, PRIME vehicle, manager, and helicopter to the scene.
"Our crews assessed and treated one patient transported via road to Tauranga Hospital in a serious condition".
“We are all shocked,” Tuapiro Marae spokesperson Shaan Kingi said.
“All our focus is directed to the grieving family and the survivor.”
The next stage will be to receive back the mokopuna so the grieving process can begin, Kingi said.
“All our love and focus is on the hapu.”
Kingi wanted to express thanks to Emergency Services and the Katikati Medical Centre.
“They did everything they could and ensured they looked after our family during this medical event.”
Kingi said a rāhui was implemented at 10am at Whenua of Tuapiro, including the river and its mouth.
4 comments
How Traumatic
Posted on 29-03-2025 13:54 | By Yadick
That's absolutely devastating. My thoughts, love and condolences go to both the families involved.
So very sad
Posted on 29-03-2025 16:48 | By Suzie Edmonds
Such a tragic situation. A childs life taken like this is heartbreaking. I hope all earth angels are able to give comfort to all the loved ones. RIP wee one.
Wai
Posted on 29-03-2025 17:50 | By Makkas1313
Kia Kaha Whanau
Your community surrounds and supports you.
So sorry to hear of your loss . . . It's devastating . . .
Heart felt aroha from us all.
No one so small and so vulnerable should be subjected to this . . . Words cannot express our feelings . . . Kia Kaha.
Horrific For All Involved
Posted on 31-03-2025 05:26 | By Thats Nice
This is absolutely tragic and horrific for everyone. I can't imagine how or why this happened. Why would dogs (supposedly pets) attack people in this way. Time for these dogs to be gone - end of.
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