The parents of a four-year-old girl killed following an accident involving a rugby scrum machine have reportedly shared a message with others to cherish their loved ones this Christmas.
Jen and Dan Cowell are "completely devastated" after their "baby girl", Karlissa, died at Mountfort Park, near Manurewa Rugby Fields, on Thursday night.
- 4yo girl Manurewa Rugby Club scrum machine death 'devastating'
- Girl, 4, dies in Manurewa Rugby Club scrum machine incident
In a statement, the heartbroken couple urged others to embrace family over the holiday period, reported NZME.
"We have lost a baby," the statement reportedly read. "God takes the best too soon."
"Our request is that people love their whānau at this time."
The family thanked the public for their support and said they are now focusing on the wellbeing of Karlissa's four siblings who are understood to be "very sad".
"Tears are a reflection of love... An ocean of love is being expressed at this time."
Manurewa-Papakura Ward Councillor Daniel Newman said on Thursday that the community was shattered by the "devastating gut punch".
"Obviously they are feeling it. We are looking to provide as much support as we can to that grieving family who have lost a little girl just before Christmas," he told Newshub.
"I don't think there is any way we can explain the impact on the family. This is devastating."
Mr Newman said he had spoken with leadership at the club, who were shocked at what had occurred.
A police investigation into the accident is underway, but the incident is not being treated as suspicious.
Specific details of what happened are not yet known, but Mr Newman said he understood the park was being used at the time for a programme to encourage active sport.
A Givealittle page has been set up by a family friend to help ease the "financial burden" her parents face.
"They are a beautiful, wonderful and loving family, always willing to give and help anyone in need," the page states.
"We have created this page to aid their family in any way possible during this unbearable time.
"Nothing can ever compare to the pain of losing a child but we want to help ease their burden anyway we can."
Newshub.
