'World changed forever': Family, fans in shock after Kiwi influencer's death

Author: Natasha Gordon,
Publish Date: Wed, 1 Jul 2026, 4:18pm

A popular Kiwi social media star known as the hunter-gatherer behind “Blokes Can Cook Too” has died unexpectedly.

The father of four boys, Joel Yukich, is being remembered for his aroha, big laughs, and the “hearty kai” he shared with many throughout his life.

The New Plymouth-based 35-year-old who died yesterday had a popular Facebook page with 115,000 followers, and an Instagram account with 14,000.

Yukich was best known for the videos he made of his cooking and hunting endeavours.

Fellow Kiwi influencer, Stef the Maori, said he understood Yukich had suffered a heart attack.

“Waiting for autopsy results to come. Condolences to the whanau. See you soon brother,” he wrote.

‘World changed forever’

Family, food influencers and fans praised the impact Yukich had on many people.

Yukich’s partner, Alanna Hussey, said in an online tribute that her “world changed forever”.

“I am completely heartbroken and still trying to process that this is real. Joel was everything to us. He was an amazing dad to his four boys, an incredible partner, and someone who would do anything for the people he loved,” she wrote.

Yukich’s partner, Alanna Hussey, said her “world changed forever”.

Hussey said the silence he left behind was unbearable, and thanked him for every memory, laugh and hug.

“I would give anything to have one more day with you.”

Stef the Maori’s post garnered more than 1000 comments from fans and friends, many of whom were in a state of disbelief.

“Damn, was just watching his stories eating those venisons last night! Rip legend,” one person wrote.

“Thank you for sharing your gifts of love for diving, gathering and preparing the meanest kai,” another said.

New Plymouth man Joel Yukich is being remembered for his aroha, big laughs and hearty kai he shared with many throughout his life. Photo / Givealittle

“This is heartbreaking, such a great guy and influence on men, young and old, showing the world the many sides of being a nurturer,” a follower said.

In a Givealittle post set up to raise funds for his celebration of life, Yukich’s sister Carlie Yukich said her brother had amassed a collection of friends who travelled the country on hunting and fishing adventures.