A 24-year-old commercial diver and former rugby player died Tuesday, November 20, 2024 after a great white shark attack near the Chatham Islands, approximately 500 miles east of New Zealand’s South Island.

Jade Kahukore-Dixon was diving from a boat in the waters off the Chatham Islands when the attack occurred. Emergency services responded to reports of a critically injured diver around midday. He was rushed to Chatham Island Hospital but died from his injuries.

Kahukore-Dixon was the director of Nomad Diving Limited, a newly formed company. Known for his adventurous spirit, he had survived a close encounter with a shark four years ago when his foot became trapped under a rock while diving. In that incident, a friend, noticing that Kahukore-Dixon had been underwater for too long, dove in to rescue him, freeing his foot and saving his life.

His father, Jacky Dixon, shared heartfelt memories of his son, describing him as “an amazing boy” and a deeply loved family member. From a young age, Kahukore-Dixon had a passion for fishing and diving. Jacky recounted how Jade would hold his breath and hide behind rocks whenever he spotted a shark while diving. 

Kahukore-Dixon was popular in the community as an outstanding young player in the Chatham Islands rugby squad in 2018. Beyond athletics, he had represented his high school in regional chess tournaments, showcasing his versatility and determination.

Chatham Islands Mayor Monique Croon described the deceased as a well-known and well-liked community member, adding that his death would devastate local commercial divers. She acknowledged that such incidents represent the greatest risk and fear for those in the profession and noted that the community would be completely shocked by the tragedy.

The Chatham Islands, home to approximately 800 residents, rarely experience shark attacks despite the presence of great white sharks in surrounding waters. The area’s economy, which depends heavily on fishing, crayfishing, and tourism, is occasionally affected by the risks associated with marine wildlife.

This incident is one of several recent great white shark attacks worldwide. In July 2024, Australian pro-surfer Kai McKenzie was attacked by a great white shark while surfing at North Shore Beach, Port Macquarie, resulting in the loss of his leg.

In August 2024, a massive great white shark was reported to have bitten a boat off the Sunshine Coast in Mooloolaba, Australia, highlighting the ongoing interactions between humans and these apex predators.

These incidents highlight the unpredictable nature of shark behavior and the inherent risks faced by those who venture into their habitats.