Boy dies after falling from cliff at Cooks Beach
Friday 2 October 2026 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated 
A 14-year-old boy has died following a fall from Shakespeare Cliff in the Coromandel on Friday evening. Emergency services were called to Purangi Road around 5.50pm, where the boy reportedly died at the scene. Police cordons remain in place at the location.
Key facts
4 facts
- A 14-year-old boy died after falling from Shakespeare Cliff at Cooks Beach on Friday evening.
- Emergency services were called to Purangi Road around 5:50pm.
- The death will be referred to the coroner.
- Crews from Cooks Beach and Hahei attended the scene.
The full story
1 min read · 3 outlets
A 14-year-old boy has died following a fall from Shakespeare Cliff at Cooks Beach in the Coromandel on Friday evening. Emergency services were called to Purangi Road at approximately 5:50pm. The boy was found in critical condition and was pronounced dead at the scene.
Cooks Beach Fire Rescue crews provided medical treatment for approximately 15 to 20 minutes before a Westpac Rescue Helicopter arrived. Brayden Jack, a spokesperson for the Cooks Beach Fire Rescue, stated that crews worked in “very difficult and dangerous conditions”. Hato Hone St John sent two local first response units, a manager, two ambulances, and a helicopter to the incident.
Fire and Emergency crews from both Cooks Beach and Hahei assisted at the scene. Cordons remain in place while emergency services personnel continue to work at the location. The death will be referred to the coroner.
While police were aware of the incident, one report stated they were not required on scene.
Where reports differ
- One report claims police were not required on scene, while others indicate they were involved in the response.
Compiled from reports by Stuff, NZ Herald and 1News.