Kiwi 'died a hero' saving children in Samoa

Christopher Limu died saving a group of children in Samoa. Photo / Facebook

A New Zealander has "died a hero" saving a group of young children in Samoa from being mown down by an alleged drunk driver.

Auckland man Christopher Limu, 29, died on Monday when hit by a car near his family's village Falefa, east of Apia.

Childhood friend Elisha Lane told One News that father-of-two Mr Limu sacrificed his own life to save the children.

"He was walking along the kerb with the kids and another lady ... he turned to see a four-wheel drive heading straight towards the children.

"He quickly grabbed them and threw them out of the way, taking the hit alone."

Ms Labe told One News that Mr Limu, who previously worked for Carter's Tyre Service on the North Shore, "always had a big heart" and in her eyes had "died a hero".

Tributes for Mr Limu are also flowing in on social media from his friends and family, who many have described as a great family man and a funny guy.

On her Facebook page the father-of-two's partner of six years shared her grief.

"It's not ok that you left us so soon and especially without saying goodbye," she said.

"You were an amazing dad and it breaks my heart knowing you won't get to see them grow up."

"It was not your time cos you had too much to live for. But just know that your memory will live on thru our 2 beautiful kids forever.

"I'm at least grateful we got to spend the last 6 years together but it wasn't long enough. Love and miss you so much!"

Mr Limu's friend Amber Brown also paid tribute to his Facebook page saying that she was in total shock.

"Chris you were an awesome guy, you grew up to be an incredible father, partner, son and friend," she said. "Taken from us far too soon, my heart goes out to your family."

Sanjay Ram said he would always remember Mr Limu as the "happy and funny guy you were".

June Palesoo Hakai said he didn't deserve to go so soon.

"Bro, you're such a funny guy. Every time I see you you're always cheerful and full of happiness. Rest in love."

According to police reports seen by local publication Talamua, Mr Limu had only been in Samoa for two days.

A man has been kept in custody accused of driving under the influence of alcohol "at a very high speed", Talamua reports. He faces a charge of negligent driving causing death.
Police also suspect that the driver had fallen asleep at the wheel.

The friends and family of Mr Limu have planned a "Hard Park" fundraising event to cover the costs of bringing him home for a final farewell.

While the exact details of where the event will be held, organiser and childhood friend Elisha Lane has penned in Sunday as the date for the fundraiser.

"As you might know we lost our brother recently to a tragic accident in Samoa," she said. "We are currently waiting his return.

"In the mean time we will be holding a hard park fundraising event, to help get him home, funeral costs..and hopefully fulfilling one last wish by finishing off his project club car he had currently been putting together."