Coroner criticises drinkers after Whangārei crash killed Don Tataurangi
A New Zealand coroner has ruled the death of Don Tataurangi as accidental, noting he was driving while heavily intoxicated and unlicensed. The coroner emphasized the responsibility of bystanders to intervene when they see someone intending to drive under the influence.
Why it matters
This case highlights the ongoing public health and safety crisis regarding drink-driving and the potential for community intervention to prevent fatalities.
Don Craig Tataurangi, 36, died on August 22 last year after losing control on a moderate right-hand bend on Pipiwai Rd at Ngāraratunua, near Whangārei. Photo / NZME
A coroner has stressed the importance of intervening when someone intends to drive after drinking, saying a Northland man’s intoxication would likely have been obvious before he got behind the wheel.
Don Craig Tataurangi, 36, died on August 22, 2025 , after being thrown from his vehicle when he lost control on a moderate right-hand bend on Pipiwai Rd at Ngāraratunua, near Whangārei.
Tataurangi was driving with a blood-alcohol level of 207mg per 100ml of blood, more than four times the legal limit for drivers 20 and over.
In findings released last month, Coroner Ian Telford ruled Tataurangi’s death was accidental.
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