Gasfitter expresses regret at inquest into boy's death in Haast

Tuesday 4 August 2026 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated Tue 4 Aug, 4:28pm

An Otago gasfitter told a Queenstown inquest he is deeply sorry for not checking a heater before signing it off. The device was linked to the October 2018 death of 12-year-old Jesse Samuel, who died from suspected carbon monoxide poisoning in a portable shower unit at a family bach in Haast.

How they headlined it

2:20pm3:55pm

1. The Press via RNZTue 4 Aug, 2:20pm

   Jesse Samuel death inquest: Gasfitter regrets not checking fatal heater before signing it off (opens in new tab)

2. NZ HeraldTue 4 Aug, 3:55pm

   Gasfitter supervision failure aired at Jesse Samuel inquest in Queenstown (opens in new tab)

3. 1News via RNZTue 4 Aug, 4:28pm

   Jesse Samuel death inquest: Gasfitter regrets not checking heater before signing it off (opens in new tab)