The funeral for a local man who died in a tramping accident last weekend will take place on Friday (December 15).

Lake Hāwea man Steve Smith died on Saturday (December 9) after a fall while tramping on the Breast Hill Track.

The demanding track reaches high into the mountains above Lake Hāwea and Steve fell approximately 50m from a narrow section.

NZ Police confirmed the matter had been referred to the coroner. 

A tribute shared on social media by the Lake Hāwea Golf Club said Steve, the club’s captain, was a “passionate golfer and a great and generous human”.

“All of our love and thoughts are with Lynne and the family.”

As a mark of respect the club postponed the closing day scheduled for last Sunday (December 10) by one week.

Comments on the post painted the picture of a kind man who made time for everyone. One described him as “a true gentleman”.

Steve’s funeral will take place at the Lake Hāwea Golf Club on Friday (December 15).

PHOTO: DOC