'Very remarkable gentleman': Kiwi man remembered after Hong Kong swim race death

The Kiwi man who died during a swimming race in Hong Kong is being remembered as a “very remarkable gentleman with a true and vibrant sense of community”.

Blair Reeve, 58, died “suddenly and unexpectedly” in a suspected drowning during an open-water swimming race on Thursday.

Local media said the man was taking part in the Peng Chau Challenge Open Water Swim Race when the incident occurred.

A friend of Reeve, William Miller, told the Herald he was gifted in languages, poetry and music and was the proud owner of a massive vinyl collection.

“Blair always kept New Zealand at heart.

“He was also a strong supporter, quizmaster and regular of the New Zealand Society in Hong Kong,” Miller said.

His friend said many Kiwis in Hong Kong met Reeve, who grew up in the South Island, through this group.

“He was very well known to our Consul General Peter Lund and Deputy Consul General Jocelyn Ng, and he will definitely be deeply missed by many in our community,” Miller said.

Another member of the New Zealand Society of Hong Kong and long-standing resident, Stacey Devoy, said Reeve was one of the most amazing Kiwis she had ever met.

“Generous with his time, talent, and infectious enthusiasm. He leaves us richer for knowing him.

“He was someone who made you proud to be a Kiwi,“ Devoy said.

Miller said he understood Reeve had a stint at Auckland’s iconic, and former, Marbecks Records store in Queens Arcade many decades ago.

The New Zealand Society of Hong Kong is planning a remembrance event in his honour next week.

Basement X, a record store in Hong Kong, also shared a tribute to Reeve.

In an Instagram post, they described him as a “true original” and a gifted poet, a passionate lover of music and above all, a “genuinely kind and wonderful human being”.

“His creative soul, sharp insight, and deep appreciation for the beauty in sound and words touched everyone who had the privilege of knowing him.

“To lose someone with such a rich, artistic spirit leaves a quiet place where his vibrant energy used to be,” Basement X wrote.

The store sent strength and comfort to Reeve’s family and friends.

“May his poetry, the music he adored, and the memories you shared bring comfort in the days ahead.”

Hong Kong Free Press reported the man was rescued off Tung Wan Beach after police received a report of a man falling unconscious. Photo / Google Maps

Hong Kong Free Press (HKFP) reported the man was rescued off Tung Wan Beach after police received a report of a man falling unconscious.

Responders performed CPR before he was taken to Peng Chau Clinic.

Police told HKFP the Kiwi was later airlifted to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, where he was pronounced dead.

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade said they were aware of the death of a New Zealand citizen in Hong Kong.

For privacy reasons, they said they would not provide further information.

The swimming event includes 5.5km, 3.4km and 1.7km swims around the island.