The community of Hāwera, the wider Taranaki region, and colleagues across New Zealand’s construction sector are mourning the heartbreaking loss of Toby Broomhall, a deeply respected Division Manager with Construction Projects NZ, who passed away following a collision near Dannevirke. His sudden death has left family, friends, and coworkers in profound grief, remembering a man whose leadership, character, and unwavering dedication touched countless lives.
The crash, involving a truck and a car, was reported shortly before 9:50 a.m. near Okane Road at Matamau, between Dannevirke and Norsewood. Emergency services—including Fire and Emergency NZ, Hato Hone St John, and police—responded immediately. Despite the urgent efforts of first responders, Toby tragically passed away at the scene. A second person suffered serious injuries, received immediate medical treatment, and was later airlifted to Palmerston North Hospital for further care. As a result of the incident, the Serious Crash Unit launched a full investigation, with State Highway 2 expected to remain closed for an extended period while officials conduct a thorough examination of the scene.
For those who knew Toby, the loss feels immeasurable. Professionally, he was admired for his steady leadership, his thoughtful approach to complex projects, and his consistent commitment to quality and safety. As a Division Manager with Construction Projects NZ, Toby guided teams with patience, clarity, and a deep sense of responsibility. Colleagues relied on his wisdom, his fairness, and his ability to remain calm and measured even in high-pressure situations. His professionalism earned him the respect of industry partners throughout the region.
Toby’s path to becoming a leader in his field was shaped early in life. He attended Westmount Private School, where he developed a strong work ethic and a curiosity for hands-on, problem-solving environments. He later continued his education at MIT Manukau in Auckland, building the technical foundation that would support a career marked by dedication, innovation, and a genuine desire to improve the spaces and systems around him.
Those close to Toby describe him as warm, reliable, and deeply loyal. He was someone who showed up—whether for family, friends, coworkers, or community. His sense of responsibility extended far beyond the workplace, shaping the way he interacted with others and grounding him in values that remained consistent throughout his life. Many will remember his easy-going nature, his willingness to help, and the subtle but steady way he made the people around him feel supported.
The news of Toby’s passing has shaken the community, prompting an outpouring of condolences and tributes from those who had the privilege of knowing him. Friends and colleagues have shared memories of his generosity, his calm leadership style, and the professionalism he brought to every project he touched. His influence will live on through the buildings he helped shape, the teams he guided, and the relationships he nurtured over the years.
As investigators continue to review the circumstances of the crash, authorities have asked anyone with information or dash-cam footage to come forward. Meanwhile, Toby’s loved ones are leaning on one another, remembering a man who lived with integrity, kindness, and an unshakeable commitment to those he cared for.
