Jarod Lineses was farewelled today at St Mary's Catholic Church in Northcote. Photo / Brett Phibbs
Family and friends have farewelled a 16-year-old boy who was swept out to sea at Ninety Mile Beach on December 27.
More than 300 people came to St Mary's Catholic Church in Northcote to say goodbye to Jarod Alfonso Lineses.
Rosmini College students mourn Jarod Lineses. Photo / Brett Phibbs
His father Randy remembered Jarod as "our miracle boy" after he was born perfectly healthy despite his mother undergoing surgery while unaware she was pregnant.
He also came away unscathed after being hit by a bus at age 4.
But at 16, his life ended while swimming at Ninety Mile Beach with family.
His father thanked members of the Far North community for their support while the family searched for Jarod's body, which was found on Thursday.
Students from Jarod's school Rosmini College and members of the Filipino community were among those gathered today.
Father Craig Dunford spoke of Jarod's love of basketball and his competitive streak.
Photos were shown of Jarod with his parents and sister on holidays around New Zealand and as a youngster.
Jarod Lineses. Photo / Supplied
Napier CBD to celebrate Christmas with a month of events, starting November 23.