Drone footage from Ōtorohanga shows the scale of flooding.
The man who died after his car was overwhelmed by floodwaters in the Ōtorohanga District on Friday evening has been remembered as a “loving father”.
Brent Knowles’ vehicle became submerged near Puketotara, sparking an outpouring of grief from family, friends and the wider community.
Tributes quickly began to emerge online,with Venturer Fishing Charters Kawhia remembering Knowles in a heartfelt post on Sunday morning as a familiar and valued regular.
His daughter shared a deeply personal message, describing him as a “beautiful Dad”.
“You were my world, I loved you so much. Life will never be the same. Broken,” she wrote.
Others also paid tribute, calling Knowles an “awesome person” who many affectionately knew as “Mr Perfect”.
Passionate angler Brent Knowles died in Friday night's floods in Ōtorohanga. Photo / Brent Knowles
As the community continues to mourn and come to terms with the impact of the severe weather, local leaders are now turning their focus to recovery and support for those affected.
Ōtorohanga District Mayor Rodney Dow today activated the Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund, aimed at helping individuals, families, small businesses, community organisations and marae facing hardship after the flooding event.
The fund, established in 2024, is intended as a last-resort safety net for residents dealing with emotional and financial strain as they begin rebuilding.
As the district grapples with the loss, local leaders say the tragedy has shaken the tight-knit community.
People needing support will need to apply in writing, with applications assessed against the fund’s criteria.
Completed forms must be emailed to info@otodc.govt.nz, with applications opening immediately for a limited period.
The fund can receive contributions from the council, businesses, community groups and members of the public, with donations able to be made to the Ōtorohanga District Council – Mayoral Disaster Relief Fund (account number: 02-0392-0018241-003).
Dow yesterday spoke to media, saying it was “with the deepest sadness” he acknowledged the “tragic loss of life” within the district.
“The damage [to the district] can be repaired. But this poor person that’s lost their life, you know, there’s going to be a family there bawling their eyes out.”
Dow said police had notified the man’s next of kin and support was being given to his whānau.
“This is devastating news for our community. Right now, our focus is on supporting those affected by the widespread flooding, as well as emergency workers and support agencies who are also helping.
“To the whānau, we extend our aroha, love and heartfelt condolences during this incredibly difficult time.”
Tom Eley is a multimedia journalist at the Waikato Herald. Before he joined the Hamilton-based team, he worked for the Weekend Sun and Sunlive. He previously worked as a journalist in Canada for Black Press Media and won a fellowship with the Vancouver Sun.
