Double-tragedy for Auckland family

The family home of William Maile was destroyed in a fire. Photo / Daniel Hines

An Auckland family is facing a double-tragedy after a young boy lost both his father and his house in two days this week.

On Tuesday the family home of William Maile, a Year 6 Westmere School student, was destroyed in a fire.

Then on Wednesday morning, William's dad died after a year-long illness.

A school newsletter said William and his family lived with an aunt, who had two boys also attending Westmere School.

The school community is asking for help to raise funds to deal with the double tragedy.

Photo / Daniel Hines

"As you can imagine this is a very difficult time for the family who have been left with nothing," principal Carolyn Marino said in a letter to the school community.

The Maile's were able to find replacement housing straight away but needed suitable clothing, food and the other personal items everybody needed for day-to-day living.

Earlier today, a family message was shared through the 'Koha Shed - West Auckland' page on Facebook.

"Our family has been re-housed after the fire that destroyed everything. Yesterday was the start of dealing with the overwhelming emotions of losing important papers, photos, precious memories and most importantly the sudden loss of Dad/Husband."

Photo / Daniel Hines

The family said bunk beds and double or queen beds would be helpful, as would other household items.

Bread, eggs, cereal, soup, drink sachets, toilet rolls and supermarket gift cards were also welcomed.

Any donations would make a big difference, Ms Marino said.

• Westmere School is collecting donations by Eftpos, cash or cheque into its Yellow Box and is also taking donations to its bank account: 12-3020-0460008-00.

• Visit the Koha Shed - West Auckland page at http://on.fb.me/1KUw0jb