Tributes for the Hastings Girls' High School pupil have been posted on social media, one person saying, "I don't understand why you had to go so early".
Another wrote, "I'll always miss the laughter you bring, the tears you bring, the joy and happiness it will never be the same without you".
"She had a quirky sense of humour and a humble cheekiness.
"And an infectious smile - that's something everyone is remembering about her, her infectious smile," Rowe told Stuff.
Akuhata-Brown's death is being investigated by the coroner and a celebration for her life will be held at Wairoa's War Memorial Hall at 1pm on Thursday.