Hit from behind crash: 'Our sky has fallen', says grieving widow

The widow of a man killed when his vehicle was rear-ended at an Auckland intersection has spoken out for the first time since the tragedy.

Hua Yang, wife of Zhengwen Alan Hu, said their family life was complete bliss when she and her young daughters' lives were turned upside down on Monday, January 28.

"It has literally felt like our sky has fallen,'' she said.

"I don't think it is possible to realise how much your spouse is carrying for you until they are gone.''

Hu, a staff member of the Aviation Security Service, was waiting behind two other vehicles at the traffic lights at Tī Rākau Dr and Botany Rd when a fourth vehicle rear-ended his own.

Emergency services were called to the scene about 5pm that day.

Despite efforts by members of the public and paramedics, Hu could not be saved.

Yang thanked those who had contributed to a Givealittle page set up by one of the first people on the scene - Auckland dentist Dr Jacky Lam.

The family had the fundraising page closed today so that the "attention and kindness'' of others could go towards other worthy campaigns and causes.

A total of $169,532 was raised for Hu's wife and daughters.

'THE MESSAGES FROM COMPLETE STRANGERS HAVE MOVED US TO TEARS'

They had received donations and messages of support and condolence not only from around New Zealand, but those in Australia, Malaysia, Hong Kong and China.

Many of the messages - from complete strangers - had moved her to tears, Yang said.

"Everyone's warm words and support have given us hope.

"I would like to assure everyone who has donated to us, privately and through Givealittle, that the funds will be put to good use."

Speaking about their daughters - aged 8 and 11 - she said: "I [will] try to repay everyone's kindness by doing my best to raise our girls to be the most upstanding members of society.''

Yang said she was initially hesitant about the fundraising page and with it, increased publicity of their tragedy.

"The public's generous support has been incredible," she said.

"In addition to the funds - which will be a tremendous help to us as we try to navigate our lives from now - the kind messages have been a ray of light in our darkest hours.''

A 27-year-old man is facing a number of serious driving charges over the incident.