Truck driver who died last week described by his sister as 'my idol, my rock'

Karatau, a 34-year-old truck driver, died in a crash on Rangitikei Line. Photo / File

The sister of a Marton man who died after a road accident in Palmerston North last Wednesday has described him as "my idol, my rock".

Kararaina King, who lives in Perth, said her brother Nathan Karatau was a "loving partner to Nadine Paurine and a very proud father to five beautiful children".

Karatau, a 34-year-old truck driver, died in a crash on Rangitikei Line when his truck and another collided. He was taken to Palmerston North hospital but died overnight.

King said her brother was a "very humble, caring person and was a good man who would go out of his way to help others".

"He loved his family and all his friends. He loved doing drifting and burnouts. And he loved his job driving trucks.

"I loved him and may he rest in peace."

A death notice published in the Chronicle said Karatau, known as Nate, was surrounded by his family at the time of his death. His children are aged 14, 13, 6, 3 and 18 months.

The notice said he was loved by "all his siblings, their families, and he was a cherished son to his parents".

His funeral is tomorrow in Marton.

King will be unable to attend the ceremony.

Alisha Samuel, sister of Karatau's partner, Nadine, has set up a Givealittle page to help raise funds for the family.

All proceeds will help cover funeral costs and amenities.