More than $35k raised to support family of Takapuna Grammar teacher Kevin Hu after Fiji tragedy

Kevin Hu was described as a much-loved and valued mathematics teacher who became an integral part of the Takapuna Grammar team. Photo / Supplied

More than $35,000 has been raised to support the family of an Auckland school teacher who died in a snorkelling accident.

Kevin Hu, 36, taught maths at Takapuna Grammar before he died in Fiji this month.

A Givealittle page has been set up to support his parents with the “unexpected costs involved in handling their son’s passing”.

“His family was devastated by the news,” the page says, adding that Hu’s life was “tragically... cut short last week when he lost his life in a snorkelling accident in Fiji”.

Hu came to New Zealand in 2018 and became a teacher after completing his maths degree.

The donation page described him as being “deeply passionate about his career” and said he was dedicated to building a better life for his family before his death.

Hu’s parents have travelled to New Zealand and are planning to travel to Fiji to bring him home and take care of his final affairs.

“The family is facing severe financial hardship,” the page said.

“They are now humbly seeking support from the community during this unimaginable time.”

Hu was described as being adored by his students and colleagues and made a profound impact on the school.

“His passion for teaching – and his gift for making maths accessible and enjoyable – meant students loved being in his classroom.

“Kevin’s dedication, enthusiasm and gentle spirit will be remembered always by those fortunate enough to know him.”

Takapuna Grammar principal Mary Nixon confirmed news of his death earlier this week.

“Kevin was a much-loved and valued mathematics teacher here, and he will be sorely missed.

“When Kevin joined us three years ago he quickly became an integral part of our team.

Kevin Hu was a maths teacher at Takapuna Grammar School on Auckland's North Shore. Photo / Brett Phibbs

“His passion for teaching and ability to make maths accessible and fun meant students loved being in his class.”

In a post on social media, Takapuna Grammar also said “students enjoyed being in Mr Hu’s maths class because he made the subject accessible and fun”.

“This week, we have shared stories about Kevin and supported one another.

“We have received so many lovely messages from parents, students and members of the wider community, and we truly appreciate them.”

Parents of students have been sharing their condolences online, with one saying: “Such a huge loss. He made calculus fun for my son. Very inspiring teacher.”

“What a sad end to a man who taught our young people in math in a motivating way,” said another. “Such a big loss to his family and his community.”

One mourner said he was one of the best teachers their son ever had and another said their son had his fingers crossed to be taught by Hu again.

One person said he was a “fantastic colleague”, who was patient and kind with students.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said it was aware of reports of the death of a New Zealander in Fiji and had not been approached for assistance.

Fijian police have been approached for comment.

Nixon said news of Hu’s death has been communicated directly to school parents and caregivers, and support was available for students and his colleagues.