Police have named the man who died after jumping from the Hikitia Floating Crane in Wellington Harbour on Friday.
He was 33-year-old Jarreth Colquhoun.
‘Our thoughts remain with Jarreth’s family and friends,’ said police in a statement.
Police are assisting the Coroner with routine inquiries into his death.
The tragic incident adds to the growing safety concerns along Wellington’s waterfront, highlighted by previous similar incidents. In the past few years, two other individuals, Isaac Levings and Sandy Calkin, also died in the harbour under different circumstances.
The Maritime Heritage Trust of Wellington, which owns the 97-year-old crane, and Wellington City Council have been grappling with how to prevent such incidents. Despite installing CCTV cameras, putting up warning signs, and considering various safety measures like mooring the ship away from the wharf, these efforts have not deterred people from climbing the crane. Trustee Malcolm McGregor told legacy media it was challegning to try and stop determined individuals from accessing the crane.
The Trust and City Council reviewed safety measures around the site after a 20-year-old man died jumping from it in 2015. Council is continuing to work on installing safety features like balustrades, barriers, and improved lighting along the waterfront.
Does anyone know whether this was a suicide or just someone on a dare gone wrong?