Aucklander dies in Rarotonga after incident on scooter while on holiday

Michael Kemp (right), with boxer Joseph Parker, died after a scooter accident during the weekend. Photo / Facebook

An Auckland man has died in a scooter crash in Rarotonga.

Michael Kemp, originally from Northland, died on Sunday following a scooter accident on the island.

Kemp was believed to be holidaying on the island as part of the George FM event Spring Break Experience Rarotonga.

Cook Islands Police confirmed Kemp had died over the weekend, Stuff reported.

Event founder Rich Henry posted online, "It is with a heavy heart to let you all know that Michael passed away following an accident on his scooter yesterday," he said.

"On behalf of all my team, we extend our deepest condolences to his family.

"Members of our team have remained in Rarotonga to liaise closely with his family during this incredibly tough time."

Sponsors George FM also posted a message of condolence on Facebook.

"We are very saddened to hear of the passing of Michael Kemp - an all around nice guy and loyal listener of George," it said.

"He will be greatly missed and on behalf of everyone here, we extend our sincere condolences to his family and friends."

Henry said family were hoping to fly Kemp's body home on Saturday.

"With a special thank you to the authorities in Rarotonga we were able to expedite the release of Michael's body and we now hold the goal of flying him home this Saturday to be with his whānau in Whangarei," he wrote.

However a Givealittle page had been set up to help cover the "significant costs involved to achieve this".

The page states that before Kemp's body can be released from Rarotonga a fee of $10,500 must be paid to cover this cost.

"Unfortunately it is a very expensive cost to bring his body home and we would love to be able to cover this cost to remove the stress from his grieving family at this time," it says.

As of Friday morning, $10,560 had been raised by 106 generous donors.

The page also describes Kemp as "a fun loving, positive person who will be remembered by all who had crossed paths with him".

Friends and family have also posted an outpouring of tributes on social media.

"Still in shock, Rest in peace Mikey. Thank you for always being there for me, and cheering up my days.

"I will cherish all our crazy times together and that cheeky smile of yours, your one of a kind dude, such a beautiful person and you will be missed by everyone so so much," one person wrote.

Another said, "You always had a smile, you were always up for a good time and you were a machine behind the bar."

Kemp was also described as "an outstanding guy", "a much loved hospo legend", and "the sort of guy who would give you the shirt off his back [for you]".

A former co-worker told the Herald that Kemp was "lovable, funny and such a beautiful person".

"He got on with anyone and didn't have a bad bone in his body. He would always be the first one to give you a hug and tell you how much he loved you.

"What a guy. Honestly an honour being able to call him a friend. Always looked after everyone, and always had your back."