Death in Hidden Valley: Military Tuitu’u Junior Vaiangina ‘served with pride’

The man who died at the Hidden Valley Festival was a member of the New Zealand Army who “served New Zealand with pride.”

It was Second Lieutenant Tuitu’u Junior Vaiangina, 29 years old.

Vaiangina joined the military in 2015 and recently settled in the Linton military camp.

“He served New Zealand with pride and his colleagues and all who knew him will deeply miss him,” said Army Chief Major General John Boswell.

The army expressed its condolences to Vaiangina’s family and friends, Boswell said.

Emergency services were called to the festival in Matakana, on Auckland’s northern fringe, after he suffered a medical event around 7:30 p.m. on December 27.

In a statement posted on Instagram yesterday, Hidden Valley organizers said they were deeply saddened.

“As a live music festival that prides itself on providing a safe and enjoyable experience for all, we are devastated by this tragic event.

“Our thoughts, respect and aroha remain with the family of the deceased at this time.

“The safety and well-being of our assistants, artists, staff, security and support team remains our number one priority.”

They say Hidden Valley will continue to follow health and safety guidelines set by law enforcement and local authorities.