A Fijian mother of two who was found dead in an Auckland apartment last week has been identified as Luisa Qeleseinikau Mate, 38.
Mate’s body was discovered by police at a Day Street apartment building after they were alerted to a possible incident.
A 38-year-old man known to her has since been charged with murder and appeared in court, New Zealand Herald has reported.
Originally from Fiji, Luisa was described by her family as a loving mother, devoted sister, and hardworking professional who had moved overseas to build a better life for her children.
“Luisa was the oldest of four siblings, a loving mother to her two beautiful boys, and a dedicated professional who worked hard to provide them with a better life,” said her brother Semi Mate in a post on GoFundMe.
He has started a GoFundMe to raise money to bring his sister’s body to Fiji.
“Through her hard work and determination, she was able to take her family overseas, always striving to give them the best opportunities possible. She was a light to everyone who knew her — caring, strong, and full of love,” the GoFundMe post states.
The family, devastated by the loss, has launched an appeal to repatriate her body to Fiji, where she will be laid to rest beside her late father.
“Our family’s greatest wish is to bring Luisa home to Fiji so she can rest close to our mother,” Semi said.
“Unfortunately, the costs of repatriation, funeral arrangements, and related expenses are far beyond what our family can manage on our own. Any contribution, no matter how small, will help us bring Luisa home and give her the farewell she deserves.”
