By 1news.co.nz and is republished with permission
The whānau of a New Zealand mother-of-four killed in a domestic violence incident in Australia have said they’re “totally devastated”.
In a statement provided to 1News on behalf of Siva Auvae’s whānau, a family member said members are “scrambling to get over to both Siva and her children”.
Police said Auvae was attacked by her long-term partner Anaru Ormond, who died in hospital after being found badly burned. He had tried to burn down their Brisbane house after attacking Auvae.
Auvae had been repeatedly stabbed, police said, with neighbours finding her and calling emergency services.
The family spokesperson, who didn’t want to be named, said 31-year-old Auvae moved to Australia hoping to provide a better life for her children and herself.
“No one, including Siva, foresaw what has eventuated,” they said.
“The family wish to have Siva returned home, as she left, in full body, and with her children by her side,” the statement read.
The spokesperson said the whānau are aware there will be interest in this case, but “ask for privacy at this extremely distressing time”.
A Givealittle page has been set up by Auvae’s cousin, Hine Kerrich, to fundraise for the cost of Auvae’s repatriation to New Zealand and sorting travel arrangements for her children.
Since the page was launched a day ago, more than $11,000 has been raised.
“If people want to assist, we came from humble beginnings, so whilst we in no way want to make this public, we would appreciate any support given to her Givealittle page to assist with the ongoing costs of setting up a new life for her four beautiful children and to send her off surrounded by her loved ones,” the family spokesperson stated.
Auvae’s youngest child is less than a year old, the Givealittle page states.
The mum was due to turn 32 on Christmas Day.
