New Zealander remembered after death during Hong Kong swimming race

Blair Reeve, 58, died suddenly and unexpectedly during an open-water swimming race in Hong Kong on Thursday. Local media reported he was participating in the Peng Chau Challenge Open Water Swim Race, which was part of National Day celebrations. He was rescued off Tung Wan Beach after reports of a man falling unconscious, and responders used a defibrillator and performed CPR before he was taken to Peng Chau Clinic.

Reeve was later airlifted to Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, where he was pronounced dead. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade confirmed they are aware of the death of a New Zealand citizen in Hong Kong but will not provide further details for privacy reasons.

The New Zealand Society of Hong Kong is planning a remembrance event for Reeve on 13 October. Friends and community members have described him as a "true original" and a gifted poet, musician, and quizmaster.

Reeve, who grew up in the South Island, was a published writer and performance poet. He was a regular at the New Zealand Society in Hong Kong and was known for his love of music and vinyl collections.

Where reports differ

• One report mentions a defibrillator was used during rescue efforts, while the other does not

Compiled from reports by NZ Herald and Stuff.