Police have released the name of the boy who died after being assaulted in his Hastings home on Monday.
He was Matiu Wereta of Flaxmere.
Below is a statement from Matiu's family:
"This is a very difficult time for us as we go through the grieving process and take in the events of the past few
days.
"We have a very supportive whanau around us and are being supported by our local community.
"Matiu was a happy, smiley, adventurous boy who loved being active and getting involved in a lot of activities. He loved kapa haka,
which his family has been involved in for some time.
"Matiu attended Te Tirahou daycare at Te Taiwhenua o Heretaunga and was a popular little boy there. He loved to sing, dance and play with all his friends and teachers. He touched many hearts with his cheeky smile and warm heart, and will be sadly missed by all his whanau and friends.
"We appreciate all the kind wishes and support we have been offered from many people. This is a tragic event that is extremely hard for any family to comprehend or experience. We must now wait for the judicial process to take its course.
"We ask that our privacy be respected at this time and would prefer media not to contact us."
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