School going through 'incredibly tough time' after 7-year-old swept out to sea

The school community of a 7-year-old swept out to sea says pupils and staff are going through an “incredibly difficult time” as they come to terms with the holiday tragedy. 

Police named Whanganui boy Ryder Hayden Coley-Clark as the swimmer who died at Tangimoana Beach on Friday. 

Churton School principal Cara Barron told the Herald it was an “incredibly difficult time” for the school community. 

“We are deeply saddened by the loss of one of our students. 

“We are supporting our tamariki and staff while respecting the wishes and privacy of his whānau.” 

In a Givealittle, his family described Ryder as an “awesome kid full of life” who was taken way too soon. 

“Our young and vibrant boy Ryder has passed away unexpectedly swept out to shore at Tangi Moana Beach. 

“He was only 7 years old and just had life planning out for him with an awesome future ahead of him a great sports player brother, son, nefu and grandson.” 

Funds are being raised to help with funeral costs, catering and travel. 

Ryder Hayden Coley-Clark drowned off the shores of Tangimoana Beach. Photo / Google 

It is the third death at the Rangitīkei River mouth within a month. 

Coley-Clark was with another person who managed to “self-rescue” and get back to shore unharmed, police said on Friday. 

Officers worked at the scene alongside Hato Hone St John, the New Zealand Defence Force, Coastguard Manawatū and Coastguard Whanganui volunteers, Surf Life Saving New Zealand and members of the public. 

Hīmatangi Beach volunteer fire brigade told the Herald it was “very sad and very tragic” and confirmed they helped search for Ryder. 

Last month, two people died near the river mouth at Tangimoana after their boat capsized about 8.30am on September 14. 

Manawatū area commander Inspector Matenga Gray confirmed two people had died and one was taken to hospital for treatment after suffering injuries. 

The deaths were expected to be referred to the Coroner.