Investigation Continues After Man Dies Following Incident in Rotoehu Forest

Monday, August 3, 2026 at 9:24 AM

By Aimee Stanton

Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the incident.

A 24-year-old man who was critically injured in an incident in Pongakawa on Friday night has died in hospital.

Emergency services were called to Rotoehu Forest at around 10:15pm on Friday, 31 July, where Harry Burlace was found with critical injuries.

Despite receiving medical treatment, Harry later died at Rotorua Hospital.

Detective Senior Sergeant Natalie Flowerdew-Brown extended condolences to Harry's loved ones.

"Our thoughts are with Harry's family and friends during this incredibly difficult time," she said.

Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident and are working to establish exactly what happened.

"We are continuing to piece together the events that led to Harry being critically injured and are making a number of enquiries," Flowerdew-Brown said.

"We are determined to get answers for his family."

We’re committed to keeping the Eastern Bay informed with accurate, timely coverage.
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