President for the Northcliffe Surf Club, Dave Shields, told the publication Kearns' death was a "terrible tragedy".
"Liam had only been with us a short time but was a nice young guy and a valued member of our team."
Local police have told Australian media that they are describing the death as an accident.
The Breakers North high-rise apartment building where Kiwi Liam Kearns died. Image / Google Officers investigating the case are also looking into whether Kearns may have been "mucking around" at the time of the incident.
A profile on Kearns on TradeMe Property shows the young man worked in real estate for some time. He describes it as a job that he loves.
"Meeting new faces and getting to know more of the public is the most enjoyable job,'' he writes in the profile.
"This industry is my passion and love. I strive to get the best results for my clients by going above and beyond."
A brief biography describes him as a "bubbly and friendly personality and lots of energy."
Kearns was born and grew up in Canterbury and attended Christchurch Boys' High School.
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Emergency services were called to the Breakers North Apartments building, on Old Burleigh Rd, about 12.30am local time (3.30amNZT) yesterday after reports a person had fallen from a balcony.
He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Kearns' death will be referred to the Coroner.
