A child’s death at a popular Lower Hutt park is an “unimaginable loss” for the family, a local councillor says.
The child was unresponsive when pulled from the water at Avalon Park last night.
Hutt City councillor Brady Dyer said his heart went out to the whānau who tragically lost their “precious child” in the incident.
“This is an unimaginable loss, and I know our community will be holding you in their thoughts during this incredibly difficult time.
“To those who were there, including emergency responders, we acknowledge the impact this will have on you as well. Aroha nui to all who are affected.”
Emergency services were called to the park at about 8.10pm.
“CPR was undertaken but sadly, the child could not be resuscitated,” a police spokesperson said.
Police said the death would be referred to the coroner.
Avalon Park, which had a $3.7 million upgrade in 2016, includes a boating pond which runs to a depth of around a metre.
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Abnormal ocean warmth around northern coasts may already be noticeable for beachgoers.