Popular Gold Coast man Raniera Tamati remembered as devoted family man

Popular Gold Coaster Raniera Tamati, who tragically passed away on Monday, has been remembered as a free-spirited and devoted family man.

Raniera (Rah) Tamati has been remembered as a free-spirited and devoted family man.

RANIERA Tamati has been remembered as a free-spirited and devoted family man who could make friends with anyone he crossed paths with.

The Coomera father, known as “Rah”, tragically died on Monday night.

He is survived by his partner April and two young daughters.

Many people on the Gold Coast have a story about Rah who was always out and about, helping to put a smile on people’s face in the community by spreading the love.

Rah Tamati.

Rah Tamati.

MAORI MAN RAH TAMATI DRAWS CROWD OUTSIDE SOUTHPORT COURT

He led the Haka on the beachfront in Surfers Paradise following the Christchurch shootings on March 15.

Days later, on March 21, the self-described native healer and cleanser spent the day jiving to tribal tunes from a portable speaker strapped to his body, to bring “a little light” into the lives of people facing court, particularly those accused or convicted of cannabis possession.

Mr Tamati also helped the homeless and those less fortunate in the community.

Rah Tamati with partner April and two daughters.

A friend, Dion Tumata, said the community is devastated by Mr Tamati’s death.

“He left an impression on everyone he met,’ he said.

“He was a shameless, passionate, free-spirited go-getter and a devoted family man.

“He was like a larger-than-life character. He would talk to anyone. He’d be the first person to give you a shirt if you needed it.

“We are looking at it in a positive view, that his journey will be continuing.”

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Gold Coast Maori man Rah Tamati captures attention dancing along to a portable speaker outside Southport Courthouse.

Rah Tamati.

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Mr Tamati’s family and friends on the Gold Coast are fundraising to return his body and family to his native New Zealand.

Mr Tumata started a GoFundMe page yesterday, with 255 people raising over $10,000 in a day. It is hoped $20,000 will be raised before the weekend.

“Him and his partner April have been really supportive towards me and my partner over the years. So when he passed away we wanted to do the same,” Mr Tumata said.

“We are raising money to send him back to New Zealand so he can continue his journey.”

April, Raniera (Rah) Tamati, and their two daughters.

On Friday Mr Tumata, friends and family of Rah will be washing car windows on Oxley Drive, Biggera Waters, between 3-6pm to raise money.

Billie Dees Burgers Beats & Beers will be donating $2 for every burger sold during the three hours to the family.

To donate, visit: www.gofundme.com/fja49k-raniera-tamati

If you or someone needs help, phone Lifeline on 131 114.