Child dies after ‘water incident’ in Auckland hotel

A child died last night after a “water incident” at the Holiday Inn Auckland Airport hotel.

Clayton Darlington, the hotel’s general manager, confirmed that a child had died in connection with a “swimming pool incident” that occurred around 6pm on Wednesday.

“The relevant authorities were immediately notified and we are working closely with them during their investigation,” said Darlington.

Emergency services rushed to the scene on Ascot Rd in Mangere.

There were attempts to resuscitate the child, a police spokesman said; however, they could not be revived.

The death would be referred to the coroner, the spokesman said.

The hotel’s website has informed guests that their pool is temporarily closed until Sunday, March 26.

“We take the safety and well-being of all our guests and visitors very seriously,” said Darlington.

Darlington declined to disclose further details to protect the family’s privacy.

“Our thoughts are with the guest’s family and friends and we are doing everything we can to provide them with the support they need at this time,” he said.