Five-year-old boy dies at Piha Beach

A view of Piha Beach. Photo/File

A 5-year-old boy has been found dead at Piha Beach near Auckland.

Police said they were called to a search for the missing child yesterdayafternoon.

Unfortunately the child was found deceased at the north end of the beach not long after. Police said the boy did not drown and his death appeared to be the result of a tragic accident.

A woman asked members on a Piha community board to keep an eye out for a 5-year-old boy earlier yesterday.

"He ... will be very scared. Was seen in the sand dunes and on Whites track 70 mins ago. Search is being co-ordinated at United (surf club), if you know anything please let them know."

A man commented that the boy had "light blondie hair, yellow top or raincoat, red gumboots".

The New Zealand Lost Pet Register is one of the first to pay tribute to the boy.

"Our hearts are absolutely broken for Max and his family as the news is in that sadly his body has been found.

"We also want to give our condolences to the rescue teams and members of the public that were involved in the search and recovery of this beautiful young man. RIP sweet heart, you will never be forgotten."

***PASSED OVER TO HEAVEN*** 29.10.2016 - There has been a Give A Little Page set up in memory of Savva and all money...

Posted by New Zealand Lost Pet Register - NZLPR on Friday, 21 October 2016

Piha Surf Life Saving Club said they weren't involved in the search and could not comment.

The matter will be referred to the Coroner.

Next of kin are still being notified.