Indian‑origin student dies after drowning in New Zealand lake; parents seek urgent repatriation

A 21‑year‑old Indian‑origin engineering student has died after being pulled unconscious from Lake Taupō, New Zealand, while on an Easter holiday trip with friends, according to a family friend.Emergency services were called to Whakamoenga Point in Acacia Bay at around 3.20pm on Sunday, April 5, after the young man was retrieved from the water. Police confirmed that despite the efforts of first responders, he died at the scene.“A person has died after being pulled unconscious from the water at Lake Taupō. Police were called to Whakamoenga Point in Acacia Bay at around 3.20pm after a person was pulled from the water,” a police spokesperson said. They added: “Sadly, despite best efforts, the person died at the scene.”The death has been referred to the Coroner as part of standard procedure.Family friends told The Indian Weekender that the student, identified as Shaurya, was originally from Mumbai and had travelled to Taupō with friends for the Easter break. His family is said to be devastated by his death and is now seeking assistance to expedite the repatriation process.According to those close to the family, Shaurya entered the lake during the outing but began to struggle in the water. Friends were unable to revive him after he was pulled out.Shaurya was an engineering student at the University of Auckland. Those who knew him described him as enthusiastic about his studies and his time in New Zealand.