David White
The central police station in Nuku’alofa Tonga. An investigation is under way into the deaths of two New Zealanders.
A New Zealand couple found dead in Tonga were electrocuted, Tongan police say.
Police identified the couple as Ben Neill, 47, and Rochelle Neill, 48.
Deputy Police Commissioner Community Assurance T?vita Vailea said the bodies were found when police responded to a report from the village of ‘Utungake in the Vavau group on Saturday.
A formal inquest during the weekend ruled the cause of death was electrocution and was likely accidental, he said.
READ MORE:
* New Zealand couple reportedly found dead in Tonga
* Kiwi Salvation Army worker allegedly murdered in Tonga
* Tourism ‘detrimental’ to whales in Tonga
The Neills had lived by themselves at the village resort.
They owned Hakau Adventures, offering snorkelling tours in Vava’u.
A post on the Vava’u ExPats page said: Our sincerest condolences on the sudden passing of Ben and Rochelle. They were special people and will be missed by many. Sending prayers to their family during this difficult time.
Another post on the Tonga Expats and Locals page said there was a gathering on Tuesday to share information on the current situation, so we can move forward as a united community”.
It is understood Rochelle Neill was from New Plymouth.