Kiwi in coma in Thailand responsive

Paul Lupi has been in a coma since a scooter accident in Phuket last week. Photo / Supplied

The support crew of a Kiwi man who remains unconscious in a Thai hospital say they have been encouraged by his progress this weekend.

Paul 'PJ' Lupi, 28, is in a coma following a scooter accident in Thailand last week.

In an email update last night, family and friends said although PJ remained unconscious, he was showing an "increased level of activity with arm, leg, neck and eyelid actions".

They said PJ opened his eyes "a few times" yesterday, and attempted to turn his head in the direction of their voices.

"This is a step forward but should be treated with caution. It is unknown how much comprehension he has in his response at this stage."

Despite this, family and friends said it had been an encouraging day.

PJ had been on holiday in Thailand for about 10 days, with his girlfriend Amy who had returned to New Zealand the previous day, when he crashed.

It was unclear exactly what happened but PJ hit his head and suffered severe facial injuries, though he was wearing a helmet.

As PJ did not have travel insurance cover a Givealittle page was set up to help pay for his hospital care. His family has urged all Kiwis heading overseas to make sure they do.

The page has now raised $159,820, and 1642 people have donated.
Family and friends said they continued to be overwhelmed by this generosity.

"We know there is a huge prayer movement interceding for PJ around many parts of New Zealand and some parts of the world.

"We are so thankful for this and, if you are one of the participants, we thank you and ask that you continue to support PJ in prayer."