An Auckland nine-year-old who drowned in a bath is being remembered as a much-loved daughter, sister and student.
Tamsyn Whiteman, from the southern suburb of Papakura, died about 8am at a house on Conifer Grove on Sunday.
She was a student at Westmount School and her family belonged to the Plymouth Brethren Christian Church.
Tamsyn's father, Patrick Whiteman, told Checkpoint she was the youngest in the family and was very much loved by her three siblings.
"Just a very, very happy, generous, kind girl and she grew up in a household that, you know we gave her all the love and affection, just totally contented.
"It's just a tragic happening, we're just totally shattered to find her the way she was, just passed away."
Mr Whiteman said they were waiting on the coroner's report and autopsy which would not be completed for a day or two. He said Tamsyn didn't have any known pre-existing medical conditions.
"To us it's utterly shattering, you know my appeal to parents is to not take your children for granted, to make sure every moment counts."
Mr Whiteman said he was thankful part of a large Christian community and they've had a lot of support and they came to the aid of the family when they needed it most.
"Tamsyn was a much-loved student at the Auckland campus of Westmount School and was looking forward to attending school again on Monday," church spokesman Doug Watt said in a statement.
"The loss is a tragedy for the family and the wider community and will impact the school in the days ahead.
"Our thoughts and prayers are with the family involved, and the church is providing support and assistance during this difficult time."
Staff and students at the school would be offered counselling, Mr Watt said.
Police said there were no suspicious circumstances and the death had been referred to the coroner.
