Tyler Porter, 20, Found Dead in Water at Arkles Bay; Family Offers Heartfelt Tribute

A young man’s life was tragically cut short when Tyler Porter, 20, was found dead in the water at Arkles Bay in Whangaparāoa, Auckland. His mother, Shara-Lee Porter, has expressed heart-wrenching grief over the loss of her son, who went missing on July 16 and was discovered just before 7 a.m. on July 26 after a widespread community search.

Shara-Lee shared a deeply emotional tribute on social media, describing Tyler as 'my gorgeous boy' and expressing the profound void left in her life by his passing. 'I am brokenhearted beyond anything words could ever describe. A part of me will be forever missing,' she wrote, reflecting on the irreplaceable bond she shared with her son.

Tyler was known for his kind nature, community spirit, and love for helping others. He was a beloved son, brother, grandson, and friend who spent time assisting the elderly in Whangaparāoa, where he was born and raised. His family has expressed gratitude for the support of the local community, which they say played a crucial role in the search efforts.

In a heartfelt message, the family shared a touching memory of Tyler’s promise to his younger brother, Declan. Tyler had vowed to take him on a road trip around the South Island to see seals and penguins once he obtained his full driver’s license. While Tyler will not be there to fulfill that promise, the family hopes to honor his memory by making the journey in his name.

With the family already facing financial strain from a single income, a Givealittle fundraising page has been established to help cover funeral costs and other immediate expenses. 'His passing has left his family heartbroken and facing an incredibly difficult road ahead,' the page states.

Friends and neighbors have flooded social media with messages of support for the Porter family, many of whom remember Tyler as a young man with a strong sense of purpose and a warm, generous spirit. As the community mourns, they continue to rally behind the family, offering both emotional and financial assistance during this time of profound grief.

As the family grapples with the loss of their beloved Tyler, they remain determined to carry his memory forward, ensuring that his spirit and the love he brought into the world are never forgotten.