Blessing at SH2 site where three Higgins workers were killed in horrific crash

A blessing will take place on the Matatā straights tomorrow at the site where Haki Hiha, David Eparaima and Soul Raroa were killed. Photos / Supplied

A blessing will take place on the Matatā straights at the site where three Higgins workers were killed in a crash last month.

About 150 family members of Haki Hiha, David Eparaima and Soul Raroa, along with some Higgins staff will visit the site on State Highway 2 at Pikowai tomorrow for a karakia and blessing.

A blessing is planned tomorrow at the site where three Higgins workers were killed in a crash last month. Photo / Supplied

The three people who died in the crash and two others who were injured were all working for contracting firm Higgins. They were clearing a culvert by the side of the road and were hit by a truck.

Earlier this month, Higgins staff dropped tools to observe a minute's silence following the men's deaths. The crash involving four trucks was described as one of the worst and "most chaotic" crashes a rescue helicopter pilot had seen the past nine years. The men were remembered as loving, loyal and cheeky in this tribute piece.

Last week, a man was charged in relation to the crash and was expected to appear in Whakatāne District Court on Tuesday. Whakatāne District Council said on its Facebook page last night that a portion of the road around the site would be closed down to a single lane and posted under a 30km/hr speed restriction.

The site restrictions were expected to be in place for most of the morning with the formalities to start about 11am.

Motorists could expect delays.

Ngarepo Eparaima, brother of David Eparaima, said anything that could give family members some form of closure was a good thing.

"We're not too sure what will happen once we get over there, we're still waiting to hear the details," Eparaima said.

"I think we just turn up.

"I understand there will be kaumatua from here and over there at the site and karakia will take place."

He said it was not surprising 150 people were expected as three families were involved.

"I'm sure the blessing will help with more closure."

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