On Friday, July 28, a 13-month-old toddler died after falling off a catamaran boat off the shores of Musket Cove in western Fiji. Her parents were preparing dinner in the galley below.
Māhina Toki fell from the boat deck where she had been tightly harnessed and was watching a movie.
The New Zealand couple, Mark and Kiri Toki, found their daughter’s lifeless body in the water and attempted to revive her but were unsuccessful. Other sailors and medical personnel nearby also tried to assist; however, the young toddler could not be saved.
Reports from Fiji police suggest that Māhina had been securely tethered to the boat but managed to free herself before falling into the water.
The toddler was described as a cheerful child who enjoyed the water and boating. The Tokis intend to return to their home in Great Barrier Island, New Zealand, carrying the immense grief of losing their beloved daughter.
Authorities in Fiji are conducting a thorough investigation into the incident to understand the sequence of events leading to the toddler’s death. New Zealand Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade has offered consular support to the family to provide them with comfort and assistance.