Sharon Maccanico identified as Mt Maunganui victim
A fourth victim has been formally identified following last week’s landslip at the Beachside Holiday Park in Mount Maunganui. The coroner’s court hearing this afternoon confirmed the identity of the deceased as 15-year-old Sharon Maccanico, from Auckland.
Identifying the Victims
Coroner Louella Dunn presented evidence at the Tauranga Moana District Court at 4:30 PM, establishing Sharon’s identity through the work of Detective Sergeant Brent Griffiths and the Disaster Victim Identification team. The coroner has now released Sharon’s remains to her family.
Sharon’s parents, Natallia and Carmine, released a statement expressing their heartbreak. They described their daughter as a beautiful soul whose loss is unimaginable.
A Passion for Dance
The teenager was described as a dedicated and talented dancer, practicing for hours each day. She had achieved significant success, winning awards in all seven of her solo dance competitions at regional and national levels. Last year, she also won an international competition in Belarus.
Her parents shared that they had provided Sharon with all the support she needed and were immensely proud of her dedication to her craft. They emphasized the strong and loving relationship they shared with her.
Sharon also maintained close ties with her older sister, who resides in Belarus, and with family in Italy. Her parents noted her ability to connect with others and her well-respected character, along with a great sense of humor.
A Relationship Lost
Sharon’s boyfriend, Max Furse-Kee, was also killed in the landslip. Her parents described him as “the love of her life,” and noted that he had quickly become a cherished member of their family. Max had provided Sharon with care and support, making her feel special.
The family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support they have received from the community, local iwi, and those involved in the recovery efforts. They also thanked those who worked to recover Sharon’s remains.
A Givealittle page described Sharon as a “beautiful, kind and talented soul,” and highlighted the devastating grief her parents are experiencing.
Six people were initially reported missing after the slip struck the Beachside Holiday Park’s toilet and shower block. The missing individuals were named as Lisa Anne Maclennan, 50; Måns Loke Bernhardsson, 20; Jacqualine Suzanne Wheeler, 71; Susan Doreen Knowles, 71; Sharon Maccanico, 15; and Max Furse-Kee, 15.
Max Furse-Kee was the first victim formally identified on Wednesday. Måns Loke Bernhardsson was identified as the second victim yesterday, and Lisa Anne Maclennan was identified this afternoon as the third victim.
Following the initial search, police indicated a shift to a “recovery phase” after human remains were discovered the day after the landslip. Recovery efforts resumed on Thursday afternoon after a temporary pause due to concerns about further land movement.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was Sharon Maccanico?
Sharon Maccanico was a 15-year-old from Auckland who died in the landslip at the Beachside Holiday Park in Mount Maunganui. She was a passionate and award-winning dancer.
When was Sharon Maccanico formally identified?
Sharon Maccanico was formally identified by Coroner Louella Dunn at a hearing held this afternoon at the Tauranga Moana District Court.
Who else has been identified as a victim of the landslip?
Max Furse-Kee, Måns Loke Bernhardsson, and Lisa Anne Maclennan have also been formally identified as victims of the landslip.
As the community mourns these losses, what role do you believe local authorities should play in assessing and mitigating risks at holiday parks and campsites?