community raises nearly $80k to support repatriation of crash victim Prince Paul to India

A Wellington man who died after his car flipped into a stream in a rural suburb has been identified as Prince Paul, as community members rally to support his family.

Emergency services were called to the crash at about 8.05am on Wednesday, where they found a vehicle upside down in a stream beside Mākara Rd, a narrow and winding route between Karori and Mākara Beach.

A Givealittle page set up by the Wellington Malayalee Association Inc. has raised nearly $80,000 to assist Paul’s family. The funds are intended to cover funeral expenses, the repatriation of his body to India, and provide essential financial support for his wife and two young children.

The page, created shortly after the March 25 incident, highlights the role of the association in supporting the family during their loss.

“We are members of the Wellington Malayalee Association, supporting Prince Paul’s family as a community organisation standing alongside them in this time of loss,” the page said.

Appealing to the wider community, the page described the profound impact of the tragedy.

“In one unimaginable moment, this young family has lost a devoted husband, a loving father, and their pillar of strength,” the page read.

Paul moved to New Zealand in 2015 and was described as honest, hardworking and dedicated. He and his wife had recently achieved a major milestone.

“Two years ago, he and his wife achieved their dream of buying their first home. Prince was known for his gentle nature, warm smile, and quiet kindness,” the page stated.

The appeal noted that the family now faces significant emotional and financial challenges.

“ACC may provide some support, but this has not yet been confirmed and more support is still needed,” it said.

Having reached $79,929 of $80,000 goal, the association thanked the community. 

"Your kindness, compassion, and support mean more than words can express," the update read.

Within 21 hours, the page was able to raise $50,000 toward the $80,000 goal.

"This overwhelming response reflects the incredible care and generosity shown by everyone who has donated and shared this page," it said. 

Paul’s funeral was held in Porirua on March 27, two days after the crash.