The New Zealand Muslim Association declined to comment when contacted by the Herald, but said it would offer support to any of its community members were they to be affected by such a tragedy.
Police divers at the scene of the crash. Photo / Andrew Warner
Two Māori wardens spent a freezing night at Lake Rotomā, where they stood for 15 hours to honour the pair.
Kawerau Māori wardens chairwoman Alex Walker and Tāneatua Māori warden and First Security guard Rawinia Teepa told the Rotorua Daily Post they'd volunteered to be a "comforting presence in sad moments" at the scene, despite the fact temperatures plummeted that night.
"Though they were submerged underwater, we as Māori make sure that they [the deceased] are accompanied ... And that's where we Māori wardens come in, working beside the police, because the police have other places and other work duties to go to.
"We were there as overnight security, just making sure everything was okay."
A Lake Rotomā local said the corner was notorious for crashes.
Shane, who would only be known by his first name, said he lived across from the corner for about four years before moving down the road a few years ago.
In that time there were often people losing control of their cars on that corner, he said.
"I've seen a few accidents but nothing where they've gone right in."
Shane said there had been a metal safety barrier recently installed.
