Tributes continue to flood in for Kaipara boating tragedy victims

Tributes continue to flood in on social media for the seven men who died during the Kaipara boating tragedy, as well as for Taulagi (Lagi) Afamasaga, 56, who is still missing.



Mr Afamasaga and the charter boat Francie (that the men were aboard) are still missing, after the boat capsized in strong winds and 4m waves.


Only three of the 11 men on board the charter boat survived the incident that is believed to have happened while attempting to cross the Kaipara bar.

The bodies of seven of the men have been recovered. They were well known to Auckland fishing charter operators.


A skipper who had taken most of the men out, some on numerous occasions, said they loved to fish, and it wasn’t just recreational.


They fished to feed their families and paid about $80 each on Saturday to do so, he said.


Auerua Ngametuaangai Aria (not pictured), described on social media as a "very sweet man" and a "quiet and humble person", was a 59-year-old Cook Islander.



Two of the men who died were cousins, 33-year-old Tongan, Alipate Afeaki Manumua, left behind a young family and Sunia Ungounga, 43, who was also a father.



Fred Marsters, a 58-year-old Cook Islander, was the operations manager at Independent Liquor, and is described as a seasoned fisherman and a strong swimmer.

Tevita Natisolo Tangi, a 31-year-old Tongan, was remembered as a big man with a big smile.



Fonua Amanu Taufa, a 42-year-old Tongan.


Mr Afamasaga, whose body has not been recovered, was a member of the Samoan community and has been called the backbone and foundation of his family.


Skipper of the Francie, Wililam McNatt, also died. His body was recovere