'Happy, smiley, adventurous boy': Family release statement after child assaulted in Hastings dies

Matiu Wereta, of Flaxmere, died last night in the intensive care unit at Hawke's Bay Hospital. Photo / Supplied

The family of a 2-year-old boy who died after being assaulted in his Hastings home have described him as a "happy, smiley, adventurous boy".

Matiu Wereta, of Flaxmere, died last night in the intensive care unit at Hawke's Bay Hospital.

A 17-year-old Rotorua youth has been charged with assaulting a child.

Matiu's family paid tribute to him in a statement this evening.

"Matiu was a happy, smiley, adventurous boy who loved being active and getting involved in a lot of activities. He loved kapa haka, which his family has been involved in for some time.

"Matiu attended Te Tirahou daycare at Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga and was a popular little boy there. He loved to sing, dance and play with all his friends and teachers.

"He touched many hearts with his cheeky smile and warm heart, and will be sadly missed by all his whanau and friends."

The family said it was a very difficult time for them, as they went through the grieving process and took in the events of the past few days.

"We have a very supportive whanau around us and are being supported by our local community," the family said.

"We appreciate all the kind wishes and support we have been offered from many people.

"This is a tragic event that is extremely hard for any family to comprehend or experience. We must now wait for the judicial process to take its course."

The teenager charged with assaulting Matiu appeared in the Hasting District Court on Tuesday.

He was granted interim name suppression and remanded on bail to reappear on November 3.

Police said they were unable to comment further as the case was now before the courts.