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Tamarii Pierre\

Tamarii Pierre memorial

Week ending Wednesday, March 10, 2010

 

Popular local television news presenter Tamarii Pierre was tragically killed on Saturday morning when the vehicle he was a back seat passenger in, crashed into a power pole at Blackrock.

 

 

In this section we present stories and tributes in his memory.

Pacific media salute Tamarii Pierre
Tragic crash claims young life
Tamarii – a kid class act
Police plead for change of attitude
Tamarii Pierre photos


Reader tributes
Send your thoughts, tributes and condolonces »

 

 

 

Pacific media salute Tamarii Pierre

Tue
9 Mar

Regional journalists have come together through online forums to celebrate the life and achievement of the late Tamarii Pierre.
News of the 19-year-old’s tragic death in a car crash at the weekend has generated a flood of condolence messages and the sharing of stories on how the energetic and aspiring young television reporter touched their lives.
 “We all know how cheerful and friendly our brother was when we were in Villa (Vanuatu),” writes Fiji Sun reporter Christopher Chand.
“The first night we met we acted as if we had known each other for years – the singing, dancing and laughter we shared.
“We were from different countries but it felt like we were family. I remember calling up Tamarii to tell him that I would meet him again at the Mini Games in Rarotonga in September.
“Tamarii would bring his car to pick Charles and myself from the stadium because we had difficulty with transportation. He would stay up late with us while we filed our stories.
“It still feels as if I had just met him yesterday. Those fond memories still fresh in my mind.”
Tamarii attended the PINA (Pacific Islands News Association) Media Summit hosted by Vanuatu in 2009 where he easily made friends with his fellow reporters.
“Tamarii was easy to spot at the PINA conference in Vila for his zest for journalism and life,” says seasoned Fiji reporter Samisoni Pareti.
“I remembered thinking, that must have been how some of us had looked a decade or so ago. “So ready to take on the world with all its troubles and opportunities.
“My condolences to Cook Islands TV, the media fraternity in Raro and family of Tamarii.”
Cook Islands journalist Lisa Williams-Lahari also remembers Tamarii’s energy and enthusiasm at the Vanuatu PINA conference.
“Those who were in Port Vila for PINA 09 would not fail to remember the energy and smiling face of Cook Islands TV cameraman Tamarii Pierre,” says Lisa.
“As anyone who has been to Rarotonga knows, when bright lights like Tamarii are taken so soon, the whole island is covered in tears.”
Former Cook Islands News reporter Florence Syme-Buchanan shares the story of how Tamarii got his nickname T2.
“Tamarii was named after his Dad and all his friends knew him by his nickname T2. 
“His Dad (Tam) told the story on Saturday evening after the home prayer service about how T2 got his nickname.
“Mother Ipu wished to have him called Tamarii – but Tam had no wish for him to be called Junior, which often happens here in the Cook Islands if a son is named after his father.
“I never believed that T2 was my ‘junior’ and never wanted him to be called that because he is his own person, not my ‘junior’,” Tam said during the family service.  --Matariki Wilson

 

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Tragic crash claims young life

Mon
8 Mar
  Tamarii Pierre.

Tamarii Pierre.

10030713

Popular local television news presenter Tamarii Pierre was tragically killed on Saturday morning when the vehicle he was a back seat passenger in, crashed into a power pole at Blackrock.

The 19-year-old was with two male friends in a black Nissan Torano heading towards Arorangi when the driver of the Nissan Terano lost control on the Blackrock bend and the vehicle crashed into a power pole.

Pierre died at the scene of the accident while the front seat passenger and driver of the vehicle were taken to Rarotonga hospital in private vehicles.

The pair were treated for minor and severe injuries

Police received a report of the accident at 2.59am on Saturday from a passing motorist and believe the accident occurred around 15 minutes before being reported.

Inspector Tere Patia says Pierre was an innocent victim in the crash and believes that speed and alcohol were the contributing factors to the accident.

Patia adds that at this stage, the 18-year-old driver of the vehicle is likely to be charged with drink driving causing death.

Police commissioner Maara Tetava says that Pierre’s death is a sad and tragic lesson in what happens when people drink and drive and speed.

Pierre, the son of Tamarii and Ipu Pierre Tutangata, was much adored member of the Pitt Media Group staff and an accomplished cultural dancer.

Recently, Pierre made Cook Islands broadcasting history when he conducted the very first live cross from the police station reporting on the developing cyclone in the northern group islands with equipment donated by TVNZ and presented by Barbara Dreaver.

Dreaver retells the moment Pierre achieved the milestone in local broadcasting below.

Cook Islands police and Cook Islands News extend condolences and sympathy to the Pierre Tutangata family and Pitt Media Group.

  • Matariki Wilson

 

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Tamarii – a class act

  Tamarii Pierre.
Tamarii Pierre died on Saturday morning in a car accident at Blackrock – he will be remembered as an energetic 19-year-old with bright eyes and a big smile. 10030713

A young man filled with
energy and passion for life

By Barbara Dreaver
Pacific Correspondent, One News

There’s this kid Tamarii – young, bright with a smile as wide as the sea.
Between him and two other reporters at Cook Islands Television, they do everything to get their news to air every night. When I say everything I mean everything – they interview, they film, they write, they edit, they present. Somehow they put together half an hour of local news five nights a week.
It was into this environment Television New Zealand gifted an O-band kit – a portable kit that would allow CITV to broadcast live.
Tamarii did CITV’s very first live cross breaking into programmes from the Police Emergency Centre interviewing Superintendent Isemaela about a developing tropical depression and the damage done by Cyclone Pat in the Northern Cook Islands.
We did a rehearsal and Tamarii was sweating fear as he stumbled over his words knowing that he would have no second chance when we went to air. Then came the countdown, he looked at the camera, took a deep breath and he was off. He was flawless, it was a class act.
When it was over there was much laughter and he looked at me with triumph blazing from his eyes. I’ll never forget that moment. He’d just made history in the Cook Islands and he knew it. There’s nothing like doing a live cross with adrenalin pumping, nerves pounding and shaky knees. Public humiliation lurks very close but afterwards there is no feeling like it.
It was a feeling echoed in television stations in Samoa and Tonga where we also donated live kits. Apia Broadcasting (TV3) not only did their first live cross, they broadcast their entire news live for the first time. The team in there led by Karl and Analisa totally made it happen with a commitment which left us, the training team, reeling with exhaustion and elation.
And the Tonga newsroom – those girls in there, Vui, Salote and co, are a force to be reckoned with. They took to it like ducks to water while Solo and his team worked into the wee hours to find technical solutions that comes hand in hand with having next to no equipment.
For the TVNZ team it was a great experience giving the island stations resources so they can provide a crucial service for their country. We loved it. And for me it was extra special working with my friends and colleagues in a region which is my own.
And so we come back to our Cook Islands star Tamarii, the young man filled with energy and a passion for life. He was killed this weekend in a car accident. It feels like a kick in the guts. No parent should have to bury their treasured child especially good parents like Tam and Ipu.
But there’s more because to us, Tamarii represented what the TVNZ project was about. It was about taking talent and running with it, it was about developing the skills of exceptional people, our young Pacific people. It was about hope. And Tamarii held the banner for all those things.
We extend our deepest condolences to the Pierre family.

 

 

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Police plead for change of attitude

Mon
8 Mar

The tragic death of young Cook Islander and local news presenter Tamarii Pierre (19) adds to the out-of-control drink driving trend that is taking so many young lives.
Police commissioner Maara Tetava is pleading with all members of the public to change their attitude to drink driving and speeding.
“We have lost another young Cook Islander with so much promise for the future, to a motor vehicle crash,” says Tetava.
“This is very tragic for all of us. Another life lost is too much. 
“We as the community must take ownership of this problem. 
“It is not a police only concern, it is our concern.
“We are doing the best that we can to apprehend drink drivers but we can only do so much. It is very disappointing to see a lot of our people including high profile persons in the community still flouting the drink driving laws. 
“Factors which may have contributed to this crash are alcohol and speed. 
“People must change their attitude to drink driving and speeding. 
“People who flout the law by driving after having consumed alcohol must stop this behaviour for all of our sakes.   
“The view that a few drinks will not harm, or I’ve never been involved in a crash before so it will not happen to me, does not wash any more. 
“This lack of concern for safety must change. 
“We will all need to play our part.”  
Tetava says that that an investigation team is fully dedicated to investigating the vehicle accident that killed Pierre.
“We urge anyone who may have seen the vehicle concerned or who may have been with the persons involved prior to the crash to contact our investigation team on 22499 urgently.”  -Matariki Wilson

 

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Tamarii Pierre - Photos

Mon
8 Mar

 

 

Reader Tributes

Dear Mr Tamarii and Ipu Pierre Tutangata

It was with a great sense of loss when the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) family heard of Tamarii Pierre’s untimely death.
The PINA regional media fraternity shares with Cook Islands TV and your family the untimely loss of a young and vibrant journalist, who we only met very briefly at the Pacific Media Summit in Vanuatu in July last year.
Tamarii was nominated by Cook Islands Television to attend the PINA/ONOC Sports workshop.
He was more than just a wonderful person and everyone who came into contact with Tamarii liked his personality. He was always smiling and connected well with journalists from Vanuatu, Fiji, Solomons, Tonga, Papua New Guinea and Tuvalu.
His new found friends namely Satish Narain (Fiji TV), Christopher Chand (Fiji Sun), Pita Ligaiula (PACNEWS), Charles Kadamana (Solomon Star) and Tapinga Lavemaau (Tonga Broadcasting Commission) will surely miss Tamarii.
We know that Tamarii’s passing will not only leave a void in our lives, but in the hearts of all those who know him.
Our sincere thoughts and prayers are with you, especially to his family during this difficult time.
May you rest in peace Tamarii

From the PINA Board & PINA Secretariat and all your regional media colleagues.


1

Tamarii (T2) was a youth that wasnt scared of anything.. He took it day by day and was never angry.. Any obstacle that was given to him, he always made sure that he would achieve his goal of reaching the top... Rest in peace T2... We miss you heaps... Bad Boys For Life Aaiiss!!!

Nae Williams


2

For what is it to die but to stand naked in the wind and to melt into the sun? And what is to cease breathing, but to free the breath from its restless tides, that it may rise and expand and seek God unencumbered? Only when you drink from the river of silence shall you indeed sing. And when you have reached the mountain top, then you shall begin to climb -- Khalil Gibran. When I last saw Tamarii, it was at the airport in Auckland after our flight from Vanuatu landed. He had just been to his first regional media convention, PINA, and along with his TV-'mum' Shona Pitt, who had also mothered many other young talents through TV careers, I was just one of many other colleagues in Port Vila who had not failed to notice that this fresh-faced media-man with the infectious smile would be on the leadership horizon in the near future. He was keen to learn, had an energy that saw others drawn to him like metals to a magnet, and very assured of his place in the industry. With the Cook Islands winning the bid to host PINA in 2011, we knew it would be the energy of Tamarii and his Pacific colleagues, the generation NOW, that would make PINA 'pop'. On top of that, for me personally, the special part was not just knowing that Tam was a rare talent taking on a difficult calling: I always tell everyone journalism doesn't make you rich, but you will live a rich life. I had worked with his father Tamarii before he took up his appointment as SPREP Director; seen this king-sized toothy grin on a toddler tagging after his parents remain with him when I saw him again in Vila after so many years. As you do in a small community; even away from home, I waited to see what this gifted individual, the child and sibling of such gifted people, would give back to his community and his region. The tragic news of an accident in which Tamarii was an innocent passenger is still so unbelievable. As anyone who has been to Rarotonga knows, when bright lights like Tamarii are taken so soon, the whole island is covered in the rain of our tears. There are so many of us whose thoughts, tears and memories will be with this special son and his very special family this day. To his regional and local media family, to his family of friends, but most of all, to Tamarii, Ipu and the kids, na te Atua e tiaki mai ia kotou e tatou katoatoa i roto i teia tumatetenga, e nana e akapumaana mai ia tatou katoatoa. I extend thoughts beyond words, prayers of inner faith, and know that just as he did in life, T2 rests in deepest, strongest, Love. Lisa Williams-Lahari

lisa williams-lahari


3

This is a great talent lost specially to an early age, my console to the family whose been affected by this tragedy. i think alcohol education should be taught to these young people, just to reflect seriously on their behavior and action while consuming alcohol.

Tai John


4

Tam, My heartfelt condolences to you and the family for the tragic loss of your son. May the good Lord give you/family peace and comfort in this difficult time. Vinaka Taito

Taito Nakalevu


5

Dear Tamarii, Ipu & the Pierre Family, Please accept my sincerest condolences for the passing away of your dear son. During this most difficuot time for you I pray that you will find solace in the peace and comfort that only our Father in Heaven can provide. May his soul rest in peace.

Rosanna Galuvao


6

Dearest Tam & Family Remembering you in your time of loss, we mourn with you the sudden tragic passing away of T2, and we pray for the comfort and peace of the Lord to be with you always. Warmest sympathies. Alofaaga Lupe,Helen,Mon & Amaze

Lupe, Helen, Mon & Amaze


7

Dearest Tam, Ipu and children It is with great sadness that we heard of your dearest son's sudden passing. Words cannot express how I feel for both of you, and as a mother who has lost a son, I cannot comprehend the enormity of you both enduring a second loss in the family again. Even from a distance, know that you are always in our thoughts and prayers. Ia faamaise le Atua Mamana ia te oulua, le fanau ma le aiga atoa. Loto tetele, ua na o lo tatou Matai lava e maua ai le faamafanafanaga sili. Tamarii Pierre is in a better place now, so do take comfort in that - playing the ukulele and dancing and prancing around with his dearest brother! He is probably trying to rev up his fellow angels too to broadcast a live feed to us all, on what a magical and peaceful place Heaven is right now! Alofa tele atu Gisa Gaufa, Fuiono & the Uesele family in Samoa.

Gisa Gaufa Uesele & family


8

I never got to meet you personally but seeing you on TV every night made me feel as if I had met you or that you were my friend. I am a good friend of your sisters and she is a great person so I can only imagine what kind of a person you with the great family support you had. I am sad that I wil never get to know you but I will always remember your magnificent smile on TV. May you rest in peace and I wish your family and friends strength and my condolences.

Julz Westrupp


9

Our heartfelt condolences to Tamarii and Ipu for the loss of their beloved son T2. Our prayers are with you at this difficult time. Much love from Samoa from Apiseta, Dorothy and Fono.

Apiseta Eti


10

When we launched the Aitutaki cyclone appeal, true to his enthusiastic and supportive nature, T2 was there to cover all events no matter what time and where they were held and to relay our messages to the public. T2 helped make the Appeal the unprecedented success it has been and we are grateful for the passion and enthusiasm he showed for the Aitutaki cause. We know that T2 showed the same positive attitude and support for many other causes that he helped bring to the public's attention. We have lost a beautiful young man, but gained much from his selfless nature.

Aitutaki Cyclone Appeal Commit


11

Talofa Tam and Ipu, Talofae, this is very sad news. Thinking of you and your family,and sharing your grief from this far distance. May the gifts of the Holy Spirit give you comfort. Alofa tele atu, Joe

Joe Stanley


12

Standing at your side and hearing you speak, I could not accept that they were your last breath. This is not a wound, but the volcano that split the world into two. The world I know on one side, and the world unknown to me on the other side. God broke our heart to prove to us that He only takes the best. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your family REST IN PEACE T2.

Tuaine Manavaroa Jnr


13

We’ve been trying to come to terms with T2’s passing, with sleepless nights grieving the loss of this lovely young man, thinking constantly of his family and friends who must learn to cope without him in their lives. I know he was much loved by his family, and we are sorry for the heartache and wish that such a tragedy did not happen to T2 - their son, brother, uncle, nephew, cousin and friend.

Nanette Woonton


14

I fully agree with what the Police commissioner is saying. It's sad to hear about the passing away of another young and upcoming Cook Islander. Especially one that is so talented and passionate about his work and life. Even just having had a brief encounter with Tamarii, there is no mistaking the kind of person he is, funny, always smiling, open, talented and much more. It's sad that we won't be seeing him with that cheeky grin on tv anymore, but Im sure he's left imprints of happy times shared, in the lives of friends,family and the community. He will be missed. My sympathy goes out to the family in this time of unexpected sorrow... May the Lord comfort and bless you all.

Miriama Eliu


15

It was with great shock that I learned of Tamarii Pierre's tragic passing last Saturday. I first met Tamariiin Port Vila, Vanuatu, during PINA 09. We were together attending the sports workshop organised as part of the PINA conference. We came to know each other well during the course of the week because of our passion for pictures. Tamarii was a television presenter and cameraman, I am a newspaper photographer. We were both young and love our jobs. At the end of each day, we would sit down together over a few bottles of tusker, cracked jokes and shared our love for pictures. We became best of friends. Tamarii was really opened and friendly. He's a Polynesian, I am a Melanesian from Solomon Islands. But he doesn't see me in that light. He saw me as a friend and colleague. I was really touched by this young man's kindness that on my returned home after Port Vila, I told my editor I've met a Cook Islander who is now my best friend. Back at the Solomon Star office on my first day of work after PINA 09,I opened my email to find Tamarii's message telling me he's back home and straight to work. We stayed in touch via our emails. Our friendship developed further when I came to the Cook Islands to cover the South Pacific Mini Games last year. I was thrilled to come to the Cooks because I knew I have a friend and a brother on the ground. Tamarii met me on arrival and took me around. I was made to feel at home. My time in the Cooks was memorable because of Tamarii. He even invited me to his house where I met his lovely parents. They were as kind and hospital as their son. To Tamarii and Ipu Pierre Tutangata, please accept my sincere condolences. I can understand the pain you're going through right now having lost a young man who has everything to live for. I pray that God will be your comforter at this time of great sorrow and pain. To my best friend Tamarii, I know you've gone. I was unable to bid you farewell. However, I am also comforted by the fact that you've left your foot prints in the lives of many who crossed your path. I'm glad I am one of them. So long my friend, so long! Charles Kadamana Photographer Solomon Star NB: I am the one in the centre of the photo you have above of Tamarii with his regional media workers.

Charles Kadamana


16

We want to send our condolences. We are a small family from Norway that lived in Rarotonga for 6 months, and we were lucky enough to meet Tamarii (T2). Linn became his friend. She is so very sad these days after hearing about what happend to him. Our thoughts are in Rarotonga right now. Much love from Norway.

Heii, Linn and Mads


17

Dear Ipu & Tam & Family.Please accept our belated condolences over Tamarii Junior's untimely passing away last weekend.Aue te moumou e.What a handsome young man.We only remember him as a little boy.May the Good Lord comfort you in your grief as we grieve with you from Aotearoa(Psalm 46). Sincerely Jackie & Ngereteina & Families

Jackie & Ngereteina Puna & Fam


18

I MISS YOU SO MUCH AND U WERE THE BEST

REBECCA TANGAROA


19

I have just returned to Auckland from a brief trip to Rarotonga and heard of this tragedy. As a mother of four children one of whom will be 19years this month I am deeply saddened from the loss of such an ambitious, talented and inspiring young man. The sudden tragic event that has occurred is due to the abuse of alcohol leading to wreckless driving that has resulted in such circumstances that most definitely could have been avoided. This is a lesson to us all, regardless of where you reside that at any one time, moment or second we all must give gratitude for ourselves and others. My sincere condolences to the Pierre Family and Friends. Tamarii will always be remembered for the young vibrant man he was... rather than what he could have become and with that his life was no other but valuable. Kind Regards, Nancy Broadbent Auckland, New Zealand

Nancy Broadbent


20

.+. REST IN PEACE TAMARII TUTANGATA PIERRE .+.

Lilian Maui


21

What a shocker as we mourn the passing away of a dear cousin, inlaw, friend and Uncle to MahiNarii Pierre. Our hearts ache, our silent tears flow, of losing a very loving person so full of energy, laughter, beauty and love. We will miss you T2..Arohanui Ma, Narii, MahiNarii Pierre,Nikki Upoko and the Manarangi Nicholas family of Ruatonga

Narii Pierre


22

talo fa tam and upu, my heart is with you, I wish I was there, again, to hug, kiss and ask the difficult questions. For which, sometimes, there are no answers but the mysteries of life. te atua te aro'a, jason

Jason Brown


23

I remember Tamarii Pierre or T2. I went to avatea school with him and his brother John. I knew he was talented because he stood out in the school. I am shocked about the loss of a friend who had a bright future. I will remember him as my friend. rest in peace bro. William Cowan in Hong Kong

William Cowan


24

To Aunty Ipu,Uncle Tam, Matt Melinda and John so very sad to hear about Titu prayers and thoughts are with you all at this sad time ia loto tetele ma onosai love reins

Reins Penn


25

Our deepest condolences to Tam, Ipu and family. With much love. God Bless. Ana Tiraa and Kelvin Passfield and family

Ana Tiraa


26

Tamarii or known by his friends as T2 was an energetic amazing talented young man. I used to go to school with him and no matter when or where i saw him he would always have a smile on his face. He will be greatly missed by many. So sad to see such a young life taken away from this world. I will miss you T2. R.I.P

Jana Robertson


27

So sad to hear the loss of such a handsome, talented man whose life was taken away so tragically by such foolishness. Why him, why not the driver?

Mata Hetland


28

Our thoughts and prayers are with the family of Tamarii Pierre.You will always be remembered as a young bubbly person with a great sense of humour,your smile and laughter will never leave our hearts.You will be sadly missed. Rest in Peace T2. Our condolences from as far as Australia are with your family.

Rangi Mokoroa & Metua Ngaoire


29

Dear Media Colleagues in the Cook Islands, This is indeed a sad moment for the Pacific Media Family. A loss of one of our journalists and especially a young upcoming media personality like Tamrii is indeed a great loss not only for Cook Island media but for the regiona as a whole. I am particularly sorry for his passing because he was one of the many young participants in the various workshops that were organised as part of the Media Summit here in Vanuatu. We were looking forward to join him and other colleagues again there in Raro in the 2011 summit. Our prayers are with you all in Raro. Tankyu tumas.

Moses Stevens


30

To our dearest cousin T2, It feels like it was just yesterday that we kissed, hugged and said "see you later..." and we boarded the plane for New Zealand. Saying "Goodbye" never came to mind. The word "goodbye" is forever and in our Tutangata family there is no "Goodbyes" just "ka kite..." To Uncle Ta, Aunty Ipu and cousins Melynda, Matthew and John and to our nieces and nephew although we are not with you in this time of need please know that you are all in our thoughts and prayers. Psalms 34:18 The lord is near to those who have a broken heart, and save those who have a crushed spirit. "Ka kite..." love Eugene, Tunoa, Natalie and Pourie.

Eugene and Tunoa Kaina


31

Dear Tam, Ipu and Family, We are so sad to hear of Tam's premature death. Our prayers and thoughts are with you all. May the Lord bring comfort and peace into your hearts as you grieve the loss of your loved one. Alolofa tele atu... Love and prayers Salome & the Mitchell family (Chano, Yavana, Tanya, Calais, Caprice & Monaro) Auckland, New Zealand

Salome Mitchell & Family


32

A golden smile, a pearl of friendship and a dimond of fun. To a young man who's full of life and willing to face the nation with his golden smile, you will certainly be missed so much. I heard and cried for this nation's lost. A young man who makes you feel confident in front of a video camera as he shares his golden smile. Rest in PEACE TAMARII - Aere Ra - Aere Ra! Tatari Mitchell

Tatari Mitchell


33

Sad to learn the passing away of such a very good friend. It's shocking to have someone so kind as Tamarii pass away too soon. I met him while covering the games last year in Raro. I still remember that he's the one that used to come pick us up at the media center after filing our stories each evening. Within the very short time we're very good friends. We used to crack jokes together and share cigarettes. Still treasure those good times...... Now we'll miss the smiles of Tamarii. Please convey our condolence to Tamarii's family at this time of bereavement. Goodbye Tamarii. May your soul rest in peace.. From: Romulus Huta Island Sun Daily Newspaper Honiara Solomon Islands

Romulus Huta


34

This is a very sad time for the people of Rarotonga. Losing a young and talented Person, such as Tamarii Pierre, to a horrific accident like this is a cruel and unpredictable tragedy that didn't and shouldn't have happened. I'm a person who strongely believes that lives like Tamarii Pierre, did not die invane because his passing teaches us the consequences of the bad decisions that we make could effect others. All I hope now is for the family of Tamarii Pierre to find peace within them selves knowing that their son had a great and loved life. May he Rest In Peace.

Jigz


35

This is a very sad time for the people of Rarotonga. Losing a young and talented Person, such as Tamarii Pierre, to a horrific accident like this is a cruel and unpredictable tragedy that didn't and shouldn't have happened. I'm a person who strongely believes that lives like Tamarii Pierre, did not die invane because his passing teaches us the consequences of the bad decisions that we make could effect others. All I hope now is for the family of Tamarii Pierre to find peace within them selves knowing that their son had a great and loved life. May he Rest In Peace.

Fontain smith


36

Cus Tamarii,Wife Ipu and family please accept our belated condolences over Tamarii Jnr's untimely passing away our prayers and thoughts are with you.May he rest in PEACE. Kia Akapumaana mai te Atua ia tatou katoatoa tei roko ia ete tumatetenga. Tumaio Noo & Family Australia

Tumaio Noo & Family


37

Tam, Ipu and family, so sad and way before his time. Please find comfort in the love of distant friends. Te Atua te aroa. Barbara

Barbara Hanchard


38

Don't grieve for me, for now I'm free, I'm following the path God has laid you see. I took his hand when I heard his call. I turned my back and left it all. I could not stay another day To laugh, to love, to work or play. Tasks left undone must stay that way I found the peace at the close of day. If my parting has left a void Then fill it with remembered joys- A friendship shared, a laugh, a kiss Oh yes, these things I too will miss. Be not burdened with times of sorrow I wish you the sunshine of tomorrow. My life's been full I savored much, Good friends, good times, a loved one's touch. Perhaps my time seemed all too brief Don't lengthen it now with undue grief Lift up your hearts, and peace to thee- God wanted me now, he set me free. R.I.P Sole..

Teniva-o-te-ra Samuel


39

Tamarii Tutangata Pierre xx + Rest in Peace Boy + xx May the road rise up to meet you, may the wind be ever at your back. May the sun shine warm upon your face and the rain fall softly on your fields. And until we meet again, may God hold you in the hollow of his hand. Sincere condolences to Tam, Ipu & family. Te atua te aroa Howard Family

Howard Family


40

To a young talented guy that's so full of life was suddenly taken away from us..???? may u REst in Peace From Maynz

Maynz


41

Dearest Tam, Ipu, Melinda and Family Mere words are inadequate to express our disbelief and heartfelt sympathy at the tragic and sudden passing of your beloved son and brother Tamarii. We can only imagine how your hearts have been shattered into a million pieces and realize that God alone can comfort your broken hearts. But we pray that it may help you to know that your family and friends in Samoa and New Zealand share your grief and are with you in spirit. Mai le taele o matou agaga matou te momoli atu ai faamaisega ma alofaaga mo oulua matua peleina o Pierre, Ipu ma Tam, le fanau ma le aiga faavauvau. May God grant you His peace and may He grant Pierre eternal rest in Heaven. With Love From Samoa & New Zealand The Ah Chong Family Randy & Carol, Natalya, Francis & Boys (Paul, Francis, Joseph) & Baby Sovita, Caroline & Brendan, Stacie, Alesana & Kayden, Alexandria & Louis

Carol Ah Chong


42

To the Pierre Family, we are saddened of the sudden lost of our good friend. he will be sadly missed by all of us... From CITC Operations Dept

CITC Operations


43

To a special friend that God has chosen to be with him. Cherished memories of you will linger in our hearts. We will always remember you. From Rob, Mark n Bel Tuaati

Rob, Mark n Bel Tuaati


44

Dear Tam and family, My heart goes out to you at this time. May God comfort each of you, in your own time grief will take its course but know that you are not alone, these tributes testify to the support of the people who care for you.

Noovai Tylor (jnr)


45

A real bummer, I'm gutted, we were going to team up in Samoa and do some tv together. Fluent in the Samoa speak talk T2 would have been a real star here. Really sad for you Ipu and Tam. Love from Samoa. George Pitt

George Pitt


46

I am vey saddend by the lost of a dear friend, he had so much ahead of him in life and i cant believe stupidty took that all away. I hope that this accident gets through to the youth aswel as adults that DRINK DRIVING is NOT COOL !! Yes at first you may think it is but when something like this happens we're all in tears because you made the wrong choice. Let this be a lesson to us all and get a SOBBER DRIVER. My love goes out to TAMARI "TETU" PIERRE'S family, "Use raised a talented bright young man who had alot going for him, thank you for an awsome friend". Meitaki Maata Kia Manuia.

M M Samuel


47

Kia Orana ete anau. Te akaroa tei tupu. Kia noo mai te vaerua o to tatou Atu i rotopu ia tatou i teia ra e tuatau uatu. Te taitaia nei to maua ngakau e te pumaana nei i to tatou tamaiti ia 'Tamarii (T2) Pierre' tei takake na te ara tiroa. Kia Vai rai te aroa mou i rotopu ia tatou e te mana o to tatou Mesia. Our deepest heartfelt condolences to our dear family, uncle Ta, Aunty Ipu, Melinda, Mathew and John. May the love of God be upon us and help comfort us during this difficult time. We will keep you in all our prayers. We love you T2..Rest in peace... Cousin Mana, Nephew Manarii & Maeu

Manarii B Etches, Manarii W L


48

It seems like yesterday when I was dreading going from the motu Koromiri back to the main island on our little dinghy with T2 and his partner in crime, my younger brother Tia. These two when together were double trouble. Sure enough something went wrong with T2 breaking the oars much to the dismay of family members screaming at us from the motu. The memories of our time with T2 will always be treasured. To Melinda, Matt, John, Aunty Ipu and Uncle Ta. Love you guys all so much and will always be there for you guys. R.I.P Tamarii Pierre Tutangata.

Ave Araitia


49

I still remember the first time i saw you.You sat outside of our form class at Avatea School.You were sitting by yourself so i just came and sat next to you to have a chat.And the time when i invited you to come to my birthday.It was then that i found out that you were my cousin.I will never forget these moments we share back in Primary School right up to the last time i saw you, which was when you and Alex came to my work to film a story.But now that you have left us and sitting right next to over beloved father Jesus Christ.May you rest in peace T2....And to Tamarii,Ipu and family may God be with you and help you during this difficult time.....Crish and Smith clan....

Crishla Smith


50

Manuia lau malaga.

Lagipoiva Cherelle Jackson


51

Ipu, Tamarii and all the family, While we mourn the sudden loss of our wonderful T2, I encourage all of us and most especially his best friends to remember T2 with his cheeky smile, his wonderful singing voice, his love to pose, so we now have so many wonderful photos to remember him by. Lets keep these treasured memories alive and cherish each moment we were fortunate to have had you with us. We love you, Fa Sole! George and Liz Williamson

Liz Williamson


52

To the family of Tamarii Pierre our thoughts and prayers are with you all at this time of sadness, Tamarii was such a good friend and classmate of ours we first met him when we were in 4th form at Tereora college ever since then we were in the same form class for three years and Tamarii was a crackup he would make jokes and everyone would end up in the conversation their were times where we would get into trouble but that didn't stop him from laughing ... thats T2. Its sad that he is not here with us anymore but he will not be forgotten .... May the good lord up above be with him we will truly miss him Rest in Peace From your two buddies Jenny & Agnes

Jenniffer Wigmore


53

Just 4 years ago we were rocking it on stage showing the Cook Islanders that we can dance, HUSK 'N that stage you were the star of the night with your flexible body making the crowd cheer, at the end we WON, we celebrated and really enjoyed that night but we never knew that 4 years from then we would loose the star of that night, so our friend we believe you are in a better place you have left thousands of hearts mourning for you but you will never be forgotten may god bless your family in this time of loss and remember you will always be remembered by the Krew Down South 2007. Maire,Faya,Mama,Leilani Merida,Ben,Ben M,Ngats,Teariki,Adrian. REST IN PEACE T2

KDS Crew


54

Young and intelegent guy..always smiling and having good time with everyone..Condolence goes out to the family..REST IN PEACE BRO..

Twinn Joseph & Jnr Tatakura


55

to My dear cousin and my loved friend Ipu, my love and prayers go out to you both and the family. I wish I was with you at this time of need, thankfully Charlie and Bev are with you to help you get through this. We are having a mass on Sunday to honour Tamarii's life. May he rest in peace. Thinking of you love your cousin Margaret

margaret Hosking


56

Its been nearli a week now and i am still in a phase after hearing about Tamarii's Tragic passing. A young innocent victim with so much potential and love for his family and friends, I send my sympathies to the pierre family and a special one to my sister Melynda, I love you. Temarii getting to know you is a memory i'll treasure forever Rest in Peace and may god be with you.

Tutuvera Napa


57

I am saddened to hear of this young mans death, as person who I have communicated with, watched on Cook Islands TV and liked. He reported traffic crashes, but sadly became the source of news himself. We never know what is in store for us in the future, but was do know that Tamarii brought a happy face to many Cook Islanders.

Pat Tasker


58

i remeber the first dancer of the year i went to in 2006 he was the first friend i made in raro. i didn't have any mates there just cuzzys man.all i would remeber was his joyful presence and his crack up antics cant believe your gone bro you were mate first mate i had in raro..peace...love..respect for you my bro.

eteroma junior cummings


59

He has called you early my friend forever missed forever loved. Our prayers are with you Uncle Tamarii and Aunty Ipu in your time of sorrow... Forever Loved Forever Missed Never Ever Forgotten!!!!

Joey


60

A guy I never got to meet but seems to me that you were a brother or a family member to us. With all the smiles on TV, passing by on the bike it's so sad that this have to end like this. My deepest sympathy goes out to the Family, Tam, Ipu, Melynda, Matthew and John BE STRONG T2 will be with you everywhere you be. To T2 may you REST IN PEACE.......Love Ya!!!

Maynez


61

Ia faamafanafana mai le agaga o le Atua i matua loto mafatia ia Ipu ma Tamarii aemaise o le aiga faavauvau. Ou te tuuina lenei link o le pese e momoli atu ai alofaaga i le uso ua malaga ma faamaisega i le aiga faanoanoa. Alofa mai le Atua ia vave tea atu lenei ao pogisa o loo ufitia ai lenei motu. Foai mai le fiafia ina ia faapena ona tatou faamanatuina le ola o T2 i ona tausaga e 19 na tatou mafuta ai. With this link,= http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8bg6vqVlZCs I dedicate this song to T2 who will be missed by thousands of people. My heart goes out to the parents, family and friends. Let us not be sad, but celebrate the life of a dear son, brother and friend for he has left us with so many memories. R.I.P T2.

Uso


62

The tragic death of our brother brought about the most united front at a funeral that I have ever seen....thank god that we all saw T2 in the same light.....long and caring......cheerful and down to earth.....a brilliant reporter and presenter and a guy who made everyone his friend!!! He had a love for living life and sharing his life with others. It's only natural that now he has gone, we will all be reconditioning ourselves to a life with T2 and at every point of our lives we will realise that a big chunk of what we took for granted as lifelong friendship, is no longer there in the earthly sense. He will however always be there in spirit and we will never forget the face of Rarotonga who we saw everyday whether it was on tv,at the rugby or partying......T2 was loved by so many for simply being himself!!! May he rest in peace and always in our memories!!! Dion Paul CITC

Dion Paul


63

OMG i was just watching him on youtube through I AM TV and thinking shucks he's pretty inspiring n young to do what he does in Television. What a sad lost! Much love to the family

Sandra Monga


64

Kia Orana Tam and Family, We mourn with you, the tradgic passing of your precious son,Tamarii Please accept our sincere condolences and may you find strength and comfort during this time of sadness. Kia Orana i te aroa maata o te Atua Jean Worthington and family- Hawaii

Jean Worthington


65

Dear Tamarii & Ipu With great sadness and heartfelt to hear the tragic passing of your loving son. Our prayers and thoughts are with you. Rest in Peace Tamarii. E tama toa. Aere ra.

Rose Akava (Former Cook Island


66

Tamarii Pierre's, you were amazing, handsome, cool, always smiling like how you are today. Everyone misses you, loves you and will never forget you! We will love you always! I would also like to say, Sorry to the family of Tamarii Pierre's. I would just like to say, that he loved you all very much and will not forget that! R.I.P Tamarii Pierres-A.K.A T2! We will miss you bro!

Stacey


67

We are sadden to hear the tragic death of this young man. A friend we have met at school and has got on well. Your memories will be cherished and always remembered. Much love and sympathy goes out to the family.... Rest in Peace T2..... WE will miss you Bro.

Mamaina & Pouvaine


68

Dear T2, Thank you for that silent friendship that you shared, among a couple of our young members in our families.You have touched their life, and will always be remembered in a special way. May the Good Angels welcomes you to GODS'KINGDOM. R.I.P T2

Tererui families


69

Heartfelt condolences for the tragic loss of a young life. Kia manuia from Yvonne, Graham and family

Yvonne Underhill-Sem


70

We at USP Journalism are saddened by this tragedy. We feel for the parents of Tamarii. Also for other family members, friends and colleagues. The USP journalism fraternity will take a moment to remember and pray for Tamarii and his family.

Shailendra Singh


71

Tamarii was one of the many students I've had the pleasure to teach. As a young teacher at the beginning of my career I have seen too many youth lose their lives. May his death not be in vain.

Erin Matheson


72

Tamarii was the first friend that ive meet on my first day at Tereora College, boy i was so scared to talk to him becasue i didnt really knew him that well but later on he made me feel more welcomed and comfortable at a new school, new environment.... The funniest memoryhat i will definitly will remember is our crack up times in our Level 3 Geo Class with Mrs Herman... boy he was the class clown, always getting in trouble or it will mainly be myself, Melissa and him getting the worst hehehe for not doing our Geo homework... man good old times... it was an honour to have him in our form class "13CH" WATT!!! he was definitly the class clown always having the biggest smile on his face... im going to cherish all the memories that we have shared in GEO and i will never forget that big smile on your face, T2 may you rest in peace...to his family, my condolences go out to you.. Tamarii you will always be remembered in our hearts and we will cherish all the memories that we have shared... "Rest In Peace Tamarii aka T2 Pierre"

Unarii Vakatini Tafale


73

Let me add my condolences as well to the family of late Pierre. May his soul RIP. And may God's blessings be upon his family during this difficult time in your life.

Julian Makaa


74

R>I>P Tamarii Pierre. xx

Itinga Nicholas


75

R.I.P Tamarii Pierre. xx

Itinga Nicholas


76

A face we love is missing, a voice we know is still, a place in our hearts is empty, which only you can fill, Tears in our eyes, they won't go away, we wish you were here with us today. We know you never meant to leave us, or make us cry, Our love for you will always stay, if only things didn't end this way. But now you're an angel, we will always remember you our good friend. We love you - Rest in Paradise till we meet again....

Lez


77

Met him during the Pacific Mini Games last year. Nice and a very friendly guy. My deepest condolence to his loved ones. May his soul rest in peace.

Rush


78

To the Pierre family, our condolences is going out to you all who have being in this tragic death. a HANDSOME BOY named TAMARII a.k.a T2 who was taken away from you, us and all around the world by our heavenly father. he will always be around us everywhere we go. only god will answer our prayers.T2 may you rest in peace. One day will meet again. .+.+.+xxxx....................TAMANGARO FAMILY IN ATUPA.

TAMANGARO FAMILY


79

Without a doubt this young man was a charmer and would always brighten any persons day with a simple smile. He will always be treasured in memories, and our memories of you T2 will never be forgotten. You are very sadly missed. Our condolences to the Tutangata-Pierre family.

Merian & Missy Noovao


80

With great sadness and heartfelt to hear the tragic passing of a loving and wonderful son. Our prayers and thoughts are with you all and may the good Lord give you peace and comfort in this difficult time. You will be sadly missed by many. Rest in Peace T2.......... Tai, Leilani n family


81

I've been at a loss for words since I heard of T2's passing. I still feel that way... I will forever keep all the precious memories close to me. Aunty Ipu, Unlce Ta, my cousins, nieces and nephew, I share your feelings of sadness and grief. You are all in my thoughts always. Love, Ngaoa

Ngaoa Etches


82


83

Rest in Peace T2. raro will never forget smile we see every night on t.v. You are sadly missed by all!! xox T2...

Itinga Nicholas


84

Dear Colleague It is with deepest sympathy to learn of this untimely pass away of our dear friend, colleague Tamarii Pierre. I first met Tamarii during the PINA Convention in Vanuatu 2009. He was a very nice young kid that strives to do his best at all times. We will all miss Tamarii. I hope the holy spirit will shares comfort to the parents and the rest of the family and friends. God Bless Tapinga Lavemaau PINA TV Rep. 2009-2011 Radio & TV Tonga Kingdom of Tonga

Tapinga Lavemaau


85

Dearest T2, i miss you so much, all those long nights of party, phew we'll never have so much fun again....Rest in Peace, you were the bomb!! Mmmwwaahhh!!

Tevananga Upu-Pere


86

Rest in peace Tamarii xx

Norah Browne


87

KOTI ,KATHY,MAEVA TEIINA


88

To Tam and family,Te akaroa teia tei tupu.e taku taeake.Tau marie te tangianga o tetai tara e,E te ATU eaa ra taku i rave i itikiia ei au nei ki teia nei mamae maata.My Brother only GOD KNOWS THE ANSWER.MAY GOD BE WITH YOU AND THE FAMILY THROUGH THIS TIME OF PAIN.Te karanga nei te tata Salamo;46,KO TE ATU TO TATOU MAROIROI E TAUTURU VAITATA ROA IA KIA ROKOIA ETE TUMATETENGA.Love from Koti,Kathy and Maeva-Nui Teiina

KOTI ,KATHY,MAEVA TEIINA (AUST


89


90

far it wasn't even that long ago when i first met you at the pierre tutangata family reunion. you were like a big brother to me, never forget that nor the memories we shared. rest in peace, mwaas xo.

Nikki


91

God giveth and God taketh away... My condolences to the Pierre family. Personally in particular to an awesome mate Melinda Pierre... Stay strong sister, and know that what doesnt kill you, only makes you stronger! T2 was an inspiration to many, young and old. Just take satisfaction in knowing that he was so special God wanted him back! For Mel, Tears stain my face Like coffee on white Nothing can soothe this pain So with God i blame this fight Could you not take someone else and leave my family be Could you not hurt someone different and not my family my faith in God is withering tell me what am i to believe in they were true when they said "When a heart breaks, NO it dont break even!" Mel, Stay strong and never lose faith... For Life is a journey.... Not a destination... "I Can Do All Things Through Christ, Who Strengthens Me." Phil 4:13

Kieni Elisaia


92

Bro ! sometimes when we've got something so good and take it forgranted it gets taken away ! but with you , maybe God needed you more than we did huh ! We miss you too much bro ! makes me scared to come back to the rock knowing that I wouldn't find you any where or that smile of yours. haha! All there is to say is REST IN ETERNAL PEACE T2 ! Love you too much, miss you too much ! mwah

M Z M A D


93

T-2 is my cousin in which i last saw when he and his brother Mathew visited our Island with their dance group for the Pacific Festival 2008. Before then i last saw him 10 years ago.. i was able to meeet him for the last time and for that i am very thankful. he was a very funny,handsome,and loving kid. I miss you so much 2!!!!! To aunty Ipu and Tamarii, I am so sorry for your loss, but please know that whereever T-2 is right now, im sure he is safe and happy....Its like a stab in your heart when you lose a child but slowly you will recover because you still have other kids to love,and to be there for... I love you guys and God Bless... Venise Tuiasosopo once again, Rest in Peace and Peace 2!!

Venise Tuiasosopo


94

Aww Man, You were such a wonderful person with lots of potential. I guess God needed another angel in heaven and saw you fit for the job. Ill never forget your charming smile, and your witty antics. May God bless your family. Til we meet again in heaven T2. **xX.Rest In Peace .Xx**

Roy


95

Happy Birthday T2....09-06-10....

DJ NYCE


96

REST IN PEACE T2....it was only yesterday we met and today you have left me alone....I will always miss your smiles, laughter, talks and many more things to say about a good friend, brother, mate, son.... Will neva forget the night you advertise me on the local television.... REST IN PEACE BRO!!!!

Kahlimn Graham


97

What a waste to lose such a young, talented, charming, bright life. Tamarii Pierre was a talented boy with a beautiful attractive smile. It shouldn't be us the parents who bury our own children, because they are like treasures to us. There was one time when Temarii came to our South Pacific District Council last year, when he saw the young people dancing you can see that he wanted to join in. He also said to Alex that he wants to join and dance but he was filming. So i will never forget the memories that i had with him. To Tam and Ipu, your children Melinda, Matthew and John and also to Heiarii may the Lord comfort you at this time of grieving and also the future to come. Te karanga tetai irava Salamo;46, Ko te atu to tatou maroiroi e tauturu vaitata roa ia kia rokoia e te tumatetenga.

tutai pere


98

r.i.p t2 TO tam and ipu and the whole family of this lovely, talented, attractive young man. may the lord god comfort you at this time of grief

teara-james


99

you've touched so many harts... i've always luvd ur smle from dah night i met you (which was in staicase) lols.. god took you n left us with nothng but achng harts....but hey we know god takes dah best first....my condolences to dah family especially dah parents.... we have lost a brother,nephew,son,uncle,cousin n friend but we all know heaven has gained an angel may you rest in peace t2..our hearts r with you now n forever mwah!!! you'll be miss uso

Puna Jane Tangimetua


100


101


 

 

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