Family to farewell hit-and-run victim Jacob Pakura

Jacob Pakura will be farewelled at a funeral service in Henderson tomorrow. Photo / Facebook

The family have invited those who stopped and helped their dying boy to join them at his funeral tomorrow.

Jacob Pakura's family are holding a service in Henderson. Their statement said that the funeral is open to "his family, friends and those who knew him".

"Those who stopped and rendered assistance to Jacob on Saturday night are also welcome to attend."

The 16-year-old Avondale College student was hit by a car while skateboarding on Rua Rd on Saturday night. He was found unconscious by members of the public who tried to help him as they waited for emergency services.

He died some time later.

Jason and Esther Pakura at the scene on Rua Rd, New Lynn, Auckland, where their son Jacob Pakura, 16, was killed in a hit-and-run accident late on Saturday night. Photo / Dean Purcell

Jacobs' mother, Esther Pakura, tearfully read her statement to media at a press conference on Monday. Her voice broke as she told the crowd that her son loved life.

"This person hit Jacob ... they don't know what they've taken away from us.

"They don't know how much of an awesome person he was.

"Jacob loved life. He loved life and he took every opportunity that he got.

"He loved his skateboard. He had lots of friends and was very charismatic. He got along with everyone.

"Why couldn't you stop? That was our baby."

A 33-year-old man from West Auckland was arrested and charged yesterday. He appeared in Waitakere District Court this morning.

The man has been charged with dangerous driving causing death, failing to stop and ascertain injury or death after a crash, and dangerous driving.

His arrest comes as a result of information provided by the public, police said.