‘He had his whole life ahead of him’: Man who died in mysterious circumstances north of Auckland named

Orewa Beach. Photo / Sylvie Whinray

Police have named Joseph Hart as the man who died in mysterious circumstances after an incident involving a vehicle in Auckland.

The 41-year-old died in hospital on January 7 with a close friend saying he was “loved by so many”.

It followed an early morning incident in Victor Eves Park carpark on Florence Ave in Ōrewa, north of Auckland, with police yet to release more details about what caused Hart’s death.

“Mr Hart was taken to hospital in a critical condition, but sadly died,” police said.

“Inquiries into the circumstances of the incident are ongoing and police are not seeking anyone in relation to this matter.”

“Our thoughts and condolences are with the family and loved ones of Mr Hart.”

Police said they are providing support to his family.

Angelique Payton said she had been a friend of Hart’s for 20 years.

“He was loved by so many,” Payton said.

“The whole community is devastated and heartbroken.”

She said it had been a tragic loss of “such a bright, intelligent, kind man”.

“He had his whole life ahead of him and he’s going to be missed so much.”

Numerous people posted messages of support to Hart on the social media pages of the Hibiscus Matters local newspaper shortly after his death.

“RIP my ole buddy. Taken too soon,” one person wrote, while another wrote: “RIP. A great friend will be dearly missed”.

“A good old soul who always had a smile, rest well my buddy, fond thoughts of you,” another person wrote.