Story perspectives

Council Urges Safety Overhaul After Tragic Drowning

10/21/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The Tauranga City Council's safety review found high risks at Memorial Park's fountain after the drowning of 4-year-old Nia Lohchab on May 21, 2023.
The fountain was renovated to remove water depth and improve safety signage.
Emergency services responded quickly, but Lohchab could not be revived.
Bates emphasized vigilant supervision of children around water and urged councils to adopt proactive safety measures, acknowledging ongoing trauma for Nia Lohchab's family.

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Story summary

The Tauranga City Council's safety review found high risks at Memorial Park's fountain after the drowning of 4-year-old Nia Lohchab on May 21, 2023.
The fountain was renovated to remove water depth and improve safety signage.
Emergency services responded quickly, but Lohchab could not be revived.
Bates emphasized vigilant supervision of children around water and urged councils to adopt proactive safety measures, acknowledging ongoing trauma for Nia Lohchab's family.