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The family of Richard Brons, who was killed in a boating incident north of Canterbury, says he loved the outdoors and enjoyed “a good laugh, often on his own.”
Richard Brons was taking his boat out for a run in North Canterbury before a planned long weekend trip when he died.
Brons, 68, of Amberley, was found near Kaiapoi Wednesday morning.
There were no witnesses to what happened, but Brons’ family believes he suffered fatal injuries after his boat collided with a tree on the Waimakariri River.
Coast Guard volunteers were called in to help after police were alerted around 7:30 a.m. Wednesday. Brons’ boat was found in the Waimakariri River a few hours later.
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A spokesperson for the family said Stuff Brons had been working on his boat when he decided to take it to the water for a run before a trip to Motunau Beach, about 85 kilometers north of Christchurch, during Labor Weekend.
The spokesperson said Brons, Amberley’s father of two, “absolutely loved” watching his children grow up.
Brons and his wife Paula Kelly used to take their children to Motunau Beach for the holidays. He enjoyed taking his fishing boat out to sea and in his youth he loved to dive.
“Richard loved the outdoors, especially hunting and fishing. He always had a project in motion.
“[He] He was a great host who loved to toast at gatherings for family or friends. He enjoyed a good laugh, often at his own expense. “
His death was a “massive shock” to the family, the spokesman said.
“It will take time to accept that Richard is not there.”
Kelly thanked everyone for their support, including police and search and rescue.
Brons’ death has been referred to the coroner.
