Toddler rescued from Niue cyclone dies

Daniel Alec, the toddler plucked from his dead mother's arms after Cyclone Heta in Niue three weeks ago, died early yesterday.

The 16-month-old was surrounded by family at Starship hospital in Auckland when he died about 3am.

Daniel was found by family members in the arms of Cathy Alec after the cyclone destroyed their Alofi home on January 5. He suffered skull injuries and lacerations.

Cathy Alec's sister, Joanna Wrampling, said Daniel died peacefully and the family were grateful for the support they had received from friends, family and hospital staff.