'He was adored': Manawatū families, shattered by road deaths, launch appeals

Fundraising appeals have been set up for two Manawatu farming families left devastated after a horrific road crash.

Macauley Arnott, 13, and his best friend's father, 40-year-old Kevin Hanks, died in the crash at Mangatainoka last Thursday evening.

Two of Mr Hanks' sons were seriously injured. A Givealittle fundraising page has been set up by Macauley's family.

"This page is to support our Mum and Dad through the tragic loss of our little brother Mac," it said.

It said the teenager was about to turn 14 and was a much loved brother,

"Mac was the youngest of seven and was adored by all his older brothers and sisters, and in return he also had endless love for all his family."

Mac Arnott was a much loved son and brother.
Mac Arnott was a much loved son and brother. Photo credit: Givealittle

"Mac lived in Pahiatua enjoying farm life and had a great sense of adventure, loving to explore new things. His quirky sense of humour and amazing creativity and imagination are also things that we will all remember him for," the page said.

Meanwhile funds are also being raised for the family of 40-year-old Kevin Hanks.

The Givealittle page, set up by his sister-in-law, said it would take the family a long time to adjust to life without him.

"Kevin was American but had made New Zealand his home and resided in Woodville for the last 14 years with his amazing wife Robyn and their kids," it said.

"He spent 10 years working hard on our family farm (Peak View) before moving off there and working at a local plant nursery."

Kevin Hanks was a father of four.
Kevin Hanks was a father of four. Photo credit: Givealittle

The page said he was heavily involved in the local community, volunteering his time with search and rescue, coaching local children's soccer teams, as well as previously being chairperson for the Woodville School Board of Trustees.

Police are investigating the cause of the crash which happened at the intersection of State Highway 2 and Mara St.

Newshub.