Emily Branje was a "passionate and talented highland dancer and fencer", the Givealittle page says. Photo / Givealittle
Emily Branje was a "passionate and talented highland dancer and fencer", the Givealittle page says. Photo / Givealittle
A Givealittle page has been set up in memory of Emily Branje, the little girl who was swept away at the mouth of the Hokitika River on Thursday.
The 9-year-old was whitebaiting with a family member when she was swept to her death. The relative, a 69-year-old man, was rescuedand treated for shock.
A body believed to be Emily's was found 40km north, near the mouth of the Grey River near Cobden, Greymouth on Saturday morning.
"Emily was vibrant, so very talented with the most contagious personality, she always made those around her laugh. She was a passionate and talented highland dancer and fencer and committed to the environment, a keen speedway fan and went on many 4WD trips."
Page founder Abby Briggs said Emily's mum Janine had been "an amazing support to me while my daughter was undergoing cancer treatment".
"I now want to help rally support to help the Branje family through this toughest of times."
People had been reaching out and asking how they could support the family, leading to the creation of the crowdfunding page.
More than $3000 has been donated as of this morning.