Fundraiser set up to repatriate body of murdered SA man from New Zealand
The family of a South African man, who was killed in New Zealand, is hopeful they will return to the country next week to have his funeral.
Luke Smith, 21, died in hospital on October 7, following an assault in Wellington.
A 29-year-old boxer was arrested and is expected in court on October 21. The boxer was released on bail and police said more charges may be added.
A memorial was held at Upper Hutt in New Zealand over the weekend.
Luke had emigrated to New Zealand earlier this year, with his parents Brian and Natasha.
However his father said Luke was set to return to South Africa in November when his visitor visa expired and was going to do an apprenticeship in the Western Cape.
Speaking to IOL this week Natasha said they were taking each day as it comes.
The family have been fundraising to repatriate Luke’s body back to South Africa where they plan to have his funeral.
Natasha said the cost to bring the body alone is estimated at 20,000 New Zealand dollars — around R212,561.
She said there were still the costs of flights and other costs.
Natasha said they were still awaiting finalisation of documentation.
She said they were hopeful that by next week they would be able to have the funeral back home.
Natasha thanked people for their support during this time.
An organisation called ‘Give a little’ has begun fundraising and the goal is 30,000 New Zealand dollars, around R318,841.
To date they have raised 22,166 New Zealand dollars, around R235,581, donated by 517 donors in five days.
IOL has reached out to Department of International Relations and Cooperation for comment and will be added once received.
Website details are: https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/justiceforluke
IOL News