Fili Alainuuese, left, who died in a crash in Hastings on Wednesday, with his older brother Peleti Oli. Photo / Supplied
Fili Alainuuese, left, who died in a crash in Hastings on Wednesday, with his older brother Peleti Oli. Photo / Supplied
A young father who died in a crash in Hastings has been remembered as talented musician and sportsman, who'd give the shirt off his back to anyone in need.
Fili Alainuuese died when a SUV hit a tree on Ormond Rd, also known as Oak Ave, in Twyford, Hastings, on Wednesday afternoon.
The 28-year-old has been remembered by his older brother Peleti Oli as a loving father, with his whole life ahead of him.
Oli, a Flaxmere councillor, said Alainuuese honoured their other brother Someh, who died in 2012, through his hop-hop music.
"He was a great sportsman back in high school having played rugby, volleyball and basketball. But the thing he loved most was music," he said.
"Fili and Someh were very close and he certainly found it tough to continue life without his brother. But he dedicated his time to his music and lived the memories of Someh through his music."
Oli said one of his brother's greatest achievements growing up was winning a national under-14s basketball tournament with his school.
The former Flaxmere Primary School student also leaves behind his daughter Lavena.
Oli said although Alainuuese was no longer with the mother of his child, he loved his whanau and those closest to him.
"He was very humble and loyal to those he loved, and loved his family very dearly," he said.
Two women in their 20s were also injured in the crash on Ormond Rd, aka Oak Avenue in Twyford, Hastings, on Wednesday. Photo / Paul Taylor
"He never got the chance to settle down. He was still very young and still trying to find his career path in life - but he was taken too soon."
Alainuuese lived in Australia for a number of years, before moving back to Hastings a few years ago.
Oli said his brother always tried to support others through their struggles, while remaining positive.
"He'd give the shirt off his back to anyone and would always be the first to help out if anyone needed it," he said.
"He always supported others. He would always be the first guy to turn up if there was someone in need."
Oli added: "He lived a good life socialising with his friends and having a good time. He always had a big smile and was humorous and loved to have a good laugh."
Police are appealing for witnesses to the crash and would like to speak to anyone travelling on Ormond Rd towards Omahu Rd between 2.40pm and 2.50pm.
"These motorists may be important witnesses, particularly if they have seen the gold SUV travelling in the same direction," a police spokesperson said.
