Did you know David Gaynor?
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A King's College student found dead near Auckland's southern motorway has been hailed as a loyal friend who loved to make people laugh.
Year 13 student David Gaynor, 17, was found critically injured near Auckland's southern motorway and died in Auckland City Hospital on Saturday.
His death came just hours after attending the King's school ball and a pre-ball hosted by prominent businessman Craig Norgate.
He was the fourth King's student to die in less than 18 months.
A Facebook memorial page set up in the wake of his death had more than 4000 members this morning.
Hundreds had posted tributes and messages of support for the Gaynor family.
Georgina, who travelled with David to the school ball, said he was her best friend.
"I have so many amazing memories of you... Being with you on the bus to the ball.. You looked so handsome, I really hope you know that. You helped me through so much and I can never ever thank you enough."
That was echoed by Simone and Ava, who said he was a great friend with a gift for making people laugh.
"I miss you and the pranks you played on me... never met somebody so funny," Simone said.
"I don't think there is one person who you haven't made laugh. your friendly smile and down to earth personality made you one of a kind," said Ava.
A poem posted by 'Jonathan' said he would be loved and remembered by his fellow King's students.
"Even though you have passed away, in our hearts and minds you will always stay.
"For every dollar I had I would give, to keep you here so you could live, but sadly that cannot be, but you will always be loved and remembered by your King's family."
Georgia said many would be grieving and missing him. She could not believe he was gone.
"I still cannot believe that you have gone. You will never be forgotten and your friendship meant so much."
Many others expressed disbelief at Gaynor's death and said they would cherish good memories of him.
Kendall said she was lucky to have known him.
"I hope you know that you will always hold a special place in my heart. I will never forget you."
Matt said Gaynor was like a brother to him, while Andrew said he was a "true Marsden man" with whom he had shared a decade of good memories.
King's College chaplain Reverend Warner Wilder told Newstalk ZB school students and staff would be offered counselling.
He said there would be a full school assembly to announce the death and pray over it this morning.
Someone would be available at the school chapel all day to talk to students, while staff would also be supported as they dealt with the tragedy, he said.
"There'll be some teachers who will be looked to by students to offer support and so those teachers themselves need support."
Rev Wilder said 60 to 70 students visited the chapel yesterday.
