Coroner: Wainui death suspected suicide

The death of Sean Wainui is being treated as a suspected suicide, according to the Coroner.

The 25-year-old professional rugby player died on October 18. His body was found in McLaren Falls Park, near Tauranga.

The case is being treated as a suspected suicide by Coroner Louella Dunn, a statement from the Coroner said yesterday.

Wainui was from the small settlement of Whatatutu near Gisborne and has ties to Nga¯i Tu¯hoe, Te itanga a Ma¯haki, Nga¯ Ariki Kaipu¯tahi, and Nga¯ti Porou.

He spent most of his childhood in Auckland and attended Takapuna Grammar School.

Wainui’s widow Paige shared an emotional social media post on Monday, after he was laid to rest at the weekend at Te Wainui Marae in Gisborne.

She shared a video on Instagram of her getting a ta¯ moko similar to Sean’s on her ring finger.

She said it was ‘‘truly a special moment’’ to get a ta¯ moko by the same artist who tattooed her husband, saying he ‘‘did Sean’s mokowhiti to resemble our marriage and our tamariki’’.

She also thanked people for the ‘‘overwhelming support, generosity and aroha’’ they had shown her and her family.

‘‘The awhi has been out of this world. I am incredibly appreciative of you all thank you so much.’’

Paige and Sean were married last year and have two young children, son Kawariki and daughter Arahia.

The All Blacks performed a moving haka in honour of Wainui before their test against the USA on Sunday.

Wainui played four matches in this season’s NPC for Bay of

Plenty. He was previously with Taranaki from 2014-2020 and played for the Crusaders and the Chiefs in Super Rugby, as well as for the Ma¯ori All Blacks.

A Givealittle page launched by the Chiefs has raised more than $270,000. All the proceeds will go directly to Paige, Kawariki and Arahia, the page said.

Where to get help

1737, Need to talk? Free call or text 1737 to talk to a trained counsellor. Victim Support 0800 842 846. Lifeline 0800 543 354.

Kidsline 0800 54 37 54 for people up to 18 years old. Open 24/7.

Youthline 0800 376 633, free text 234, email talk@youthline.co.nz.