A 13-month-old toddler lost her life on Friday, July 28, after she fell from the deck of a catamaran boat while her parents were preparing dinner in the galley below.
As reported by the Fiji police, the little girl, Māhina Toki, had been strapped into a harness on the deck, watching a movie, when the incident occurred at Musket Cove in western Fiji.
The New Zealand couple, Mark and Kiri Toki, found their daughter’s body in the water and rushed to the shore in an effort to revive her. Other sailors nearby, including medical personnel, reportedly tried to assist but the toddler could not be revived.
A crowdfunding page was created by Grace Palos, explaining that Māhina had been tethered to the boat before she managed to free herself and fell into the water.
Māhina Toki was described as a cheerful child who enjoyed the water and boat life. Her parents intend to return to their home in Great Barrier Island, New Zealand.
Fiji authorities are investigating the circumstances surrounding the toddler’s death.
The New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade is offering consular support to the family.