Northland teacher and sportsman Harry Darkins farewelled at Whangārei

A celebration of Harry Darkins’ life will be held at the Old Boys Marist Rugby Club in Whangārei on Saturday at 2pm.

The family of Northland teacher and sportsman Harry Darkins have spoken of their “grief and gratitude” as they prepare an event to celebrate his full life.

Darkins’ brother Rory said while the days following his death have been difficult, family had been moved by an outpouring of support from people who knew him.

“It’s been a hard week for everyone.

“At the same time, we’ve felt so loved and supported by family and friends and the broader community.

“The amount of people who have reached out and supported us has been really moving.”

Darkins, 36, died after being struck by a vehicle on Puketona Rd in Haruru in the early hours of January 18.

Police are continuing to investigate the incident.

Darkins was a teacher at Whangārei Intermediate School for three years, and a teacher at Whangārei Boys’ High School for 11 years, before moving to Auckland in 2024 to take up a teaching position at Ormiston Junior College.

He was also a talented sportsman and coach, having played rugby sevens and cricket for various Northland clubs over the years, including Onerahi Central Cricket Club, City Cricket Club and the Northland Men’s team.

Darkins was a current member of the Northland Māori Tāne team.

A celebration of his life will be held at the Old Boys Marist Rugby Club in Whangārei on Saturday at 2pm.

Family, friends and “all whose lives were touched by Harry” are invited.

Rory said the event was a chance for people to reconnect with each other and share stories and memories.

“Harry was so well known and so well liked across so many communities.

“It’s an opportunity for those who want to celebrate his life and connect and grieve together, and think about what his life has given us.

“His life is very much worth celebrating and he would want this to draw people closer.”

Darkins left behind his partner Hana and 12-year-old daughter Iylah. He was also a step-father to Ruby, 7, and Ivy, 5.

A Givealittle page set up to support Darkins’ family has so far raised more than $5500.

Rory said the family also thanked police, who were being thorough with their investigation.

“We know everyone is doing their best.

“The police we’ve dealt with have been really gracious and supportive and we’re grateful to them as well and all the efforts they’re putting in.”

Police have confirmed the driver of the vehicle that struck Darkins stopped immediately after the crash.

The vehicle was seized, and a scene examination was carried out by serious crash investigators.

Police continue to ask any witnesses to come forward, particularly anyone in Haruru Falls between 11.55pm on Saturday, January 17, and 12.10am on Sunday, January 18.

The celebration of Darkins’ life will also be live streamed on https://share.funeral.stream/ArQWG.

The link will be available via Morris and Morris Funerals’ website.

Jenny Ling is a senior journalist at the Northern Advocate. She has a special interest in covering human interest stories, along with finance, roading, and social issues.