New Zealand tradition electrocuted to death: Wesley Talakai dies after crane hits power lines in Greenhithe
- Kiwi father died after being electrocuted at a work site
- A crane hit a power line at the Greenhithe site
- Wesley Talakai’s family to get support from fundraiser
A Kiwi father has died after being electrocuted at a construction site, leaving behind his wife and two children.
Wesley Talakai, 38, delivered lumber to the construction site of a house on Tauhinu Road in Greenhithe, a northwestern suburb of Auckland, New Zealand, on Aug. 5.
Mr. Talakai, who is originally from Tonga, helped unload the wood from his truck while a crane operator tried to move the packages of wood.
But the merchant was electrocuted when the lifted crane accidentally hit power lines above Mr. Talakai’s truck during the operation.
Emergency services were called to the construction site by the owner, but Mr Talakai died at the scene.
Wesley Talakai (pictured with wife Tasha Talakai and two sons), 38, tragically died after being electrocuted at a construction site on August 5
Mr. Talakai is survived by a wife, Tasha Talakai, and two boys, ages 12 and 5.
His funeral is scheduled for next week and family from Tonga will fly over to attend.
The family has also received support from the local Tongan community in Auckland.
Lisa McKenzie, a close friend of Mrs. Talakai, reflected on the tragedy.
“They are the nicest, most loving family. He was so devoted to her and everyone they came in contact with, they carried light and were kind to everyone, and like a really sweet family,” she told the New Zealand Herald.
“It’s sad for everyone, but heartbreaking for this family because they were so closely connected.”
Mr Talakai delivered timber to the construction site of a house being built on Tauhinu Road (pictured) in Greenhith, a northwestern suburb of Auckland, New Zealand
Mrs. McKenzie has one Give a small page to support the family who will go to cover their bills.
“Let’s help this wonderful Christian homeschooling family through our donations, which will give them some breathing space, paying for a roof over their heads, food, electricity, and other basic needs,” she wrote.
WorkSafe has launched an investigation into the incident.
The investigation can take up to 12 months.