A young father has died in front of his children and partner after being buried when a sand dune suddenly collapsed on him at a New Zealand beach.
Kane Watson, 28, was digging into the dune while playing with his three stepsons and 18-month-old daughter at Muriwai Beach, northwest of Auckland, around 5PM on Saturday when the incident happened.
The dune gave way, trapping him under the sand for 15 minutes. Witnesses recalled hearing children scream for help before desperate attempts were made to dig him out.
Mr Watson suffered critical injuries and died the following day.
Family friend Kristalle Tayler set up a Givealittle fundraiser to help cover funeral costs. It received nearly $5,000 in just two hours.
On the page, she wrote: "In seconds, laughter turned to panic as his family witnessed the unimaginable unfold before their eyes.
"Despite the incredible efforts of rescue teams and doctors, Kane tragically passed away from his injuries.
"To have witnessed such a tragedy and now face life without him is almost unbearable."*
Mr Watson and his partner Jasmine were expecting their second child together at the time of his death.
Ms Tayler added: "Kane was a much-loved son, brother, partner and, above all, a devoted father. His greatest joy was being with his children - not only his own, but also the kids he cared for and loved as if they were his own.
"Family was always at the very centre of who he was.
"Most heartbreakingly, his youngest child, due early next year, will never get to meet him, but will grow up hearing stories of the incredible man who loved them before they were born."*
Mr Watson’s sister, Shaquille, told local outlet Stuff her brother was "her best friend, her favourite person" and said his death had "completely shattered her."
She added: *"He was just an amazing dad. I guess that's where it's like just the most heartbreaking thing.
"All he ever wanted was to have his own family and it really does feel like the minute he got there, it was ripped away from him."*
Emergency services confirmed that Mr Watson was buried for about 15 minutes before he was pulled out and treated.
Ms Tayler said the family had been left devastated: "Kane's absence leaves a hole that can never be filled."