Max Furse-Kee, left, with younger members of his family. Photo supplied
The family of Max Furse-Kee have released a heartfelt statement, paying tribute to the 15-year-old Pakuranga College pupil who died in Thursday’s Mount Maunganui landslide, and describing their profound loss.

Max was among those killed when a landslide struck the Mount Maunganui campground during severe weather on January 22, an event that’s claimed six lives and devastated families and communities.

Police yesterday released the names of the six people unaccounted for, as the search formally moved into a recovery phase.

“My love for Max is impossible to explain,” his mother and wider family say.

“No words are big enough to describe this love or loss.

“From the moment I first looked at his beautiful blue eyes almost 16 years ago he had my whole heart – he was my sunshine.”

They described Max as “an incredible, kind, and beautiful human being”, a devoted son and big brother, and someone who was deeply loved by his wider family, friends, teammates and girlfriend.

“Max was incredibly close to his family, and the bond we shared with him meant everything to us.

“He brought so much joy, laughter, and light into our lives every single day.”

The family say life without Max is impossible to comprehend, particularly as he was approaching significant milestones.

“This week Max would have turned 16 – a milestone birthday and something we were all looking forward to celebrating.

“Just days ago, my biggest fear was him getting his driver’s licence. How I wish now he could have experienced the joy of driving, and so many other moments that growing up brings.”

They say the loss has changed their lives forever.

“Our lives have changed so suddenly and so completely. We will never be the same.”

The family also thanked those involved in the ongoing recovery effort at the site of the landslide in Mount Maunganui, acknowledging the compassion shown by emergency workers.

“We want to sincerely thank the entire team working at Mauao. We have been cared for with extraordinary kindness, compassion, and humanity.

“With tears in their eyes they have updated us, sat with us, fed us. They have searched for hours on end and continue to work tirelessly to bring our baby home to us.”

They also extend their thoughts to other families affected by the landslide.

“Our hearts are also with the families who are waiting for their loved ones with us. We share this grief with you, and we are holding you close in our thoughts during this unimaginably painful time.”

The family’s statement ends with a message of enduring love.

“Max will always be loved, always be ours, and always be remembered. Love you 100, Max.”