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ISSUE
Friday, April 17, 2026
Volume 17 . Issue 15
A 21-year-old University of Auckland Engineering student, identified as Shaurya, has died after being pulled unconscious from Lake Taupō during a trip with friends over the Easter break, according to a family friend.
A GiveALittle page set up by MuthTamil Sangam NZ described him as a kind young man.
“Shaurya was a bright, kind-hearted young man and the only child of his parents. Their world has been devastated by this unimaginable loss - no family should have to endure such heartbreak,” the page said.
Police said emergency services were called to Whakamoenga Point in Acacia Bay at around 3.20pm on Sunday, April 5.
“A person has died after being pulled unconscious from the water at Lake Taupō,” the statement said.
Despite best efforts, the person died at the scene, a police spokesperson said. The death was referred to the Coroner.
Family friends told The Indian Weekender that Shaurya, originally from Mumbai, had travelled to Taupō with friends for the holiday period. They said his family is devastated and is now seeking assistance to help expedite repatriation arrangements.
According to those close to the family, Shaurya entered the lake during the trip but began to struggle in the water. He could not be revived. A family friend also said the student was a confident swimmer, despite speculation on social media suggesting otherwise.
A GiveALittle page said, “Every contribution will make a meaningful difference.”
“If you prefer to remain anonymous, we fully respect your privacy. If you are comfortable sharing your details, please email presidentmtsauckland@gmail.com so the family may express their gratitude in time.”
It added that all funds raised will be paid directly to Anns Funeral Services Ltd to ensure transparency and that contributions are used solely for funeral expenses.
This article has been updated with additional information
A 21-year-old University of Auckland Engineering student, identified as Shaurya, has died after being pulled unconscious from Lake Taupō during a trip with friends over the Easter break, according to a family friend.
A GiveALittle page set up by MuthTamil Sangam NZ described him as a kind young man.
A 21-year-old University of Auckland Engineering student, identified as Shaurya, has died after being pulled unconscious from Lake Taupō during a trip with friends over the Easter break, according to a family friend.
A GiveALittle page set up by MuthTamil Sangam NZ described him as a kind young man.
“Shaurya was a bright, kind-hearted young man and the only child of his parents. Their world has been devastated by this unimaginable loss - no family should have to endure such heartbreak,” the page said.
Police said emergency services were called to Whakamoenga Point in Acacia Bay at around 3.20pm on Sunday, April 5.
“A person has died after being pulled unconscious from the water at Lake Taupō,” the statement said.
Despite best efforts, the person died at the scene, a police spokesperson said. The death was referred to the Coroner.
Family friends told The Indian Weekender that Shaurya, originally from Mumbai, had travelled to Taupō with friends for the holiday period. They said his family is devastated and is now seeking assistance to help expedite repatriation arrangements.
According to those close to the family, Shaurya entered the lake during the trip but began to struggle in the water. He could not be revived. A family friend also said the student was a confident swimmer, despite speculation on social media suggesting otherwise.
A GiveALittle page said, “Every contribution will make a meaningful difference.”
“If you prefer to remain anonymous, we fully respect your privacy. If you are comfortable sharing your details, please email presidentmtsauckland@gmail.com so the family may express their gratitude in time.”
It added that all funds raised will be paid directly to Anns Funeral Services Ltd to ensure transparency and that contributions are used solely for funeral expenses.
This article has been updated with additional information
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