- By Ajeet Kumar
- Mon, 25 May 2026 01:49 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
- Indian-origin Uber driver died in Papamoa, New Zealand crash.
- Ramandeep Dhillon leaves behind wife and young daughter.
- Fundraising page established for family's financial support.
An Indian-origin man from Punjab has died in a tragic two-vehicle crash while working a late-evening Uber shift in New Zealand's Papamoa, leaving behind his wife and young daughter. According to police, 36-year-old Ramandeep Dhillon died at the scene after the crash on Te Puke Highway, between Bell Road and Poplar Lane, around 7:15 pm last Wednesday. Two occupants in the other vehicle suffered injuries and were taken for medical treatment.
Originally from Punjab, Dhillon had moved to New Zealand in 2015 on a student visa in search of better opportunities. After years of building a life there, he briefly returned to India in 2024 to marry Veerpal Kaur. The couple later settled together in Papamoa, where they both worked in kiwifruit orchards, according to a report by the New Zealand Herald.
Had spent time with their 18-month-old daughter
Following the birth of their daughter, Kudrat, Dhillon reportedly took up Uber driving to gain more flexibility and spend time caring for his child. His wife said the road where the fatal accident occurred was one he regularly travelled while working.
Recalling the final moments before he left home, Kaur said Dhillon had spent time with their 18-month-old daughter earlier in the day and told her he would be back home for dinner after work.
However, concern grew when he stopped responding to calls later that evening. Hours later, police arrived at the family’s doorstep with the devastating news that her husband had died in the crash.
"Loyal, caring and thoughtful partner"
"I cried, I cried, I cried. I felt that my life is spoilt now," Kaur told the publication while remembering her husband.
The grieving wife said the couple first met through family connections at a gathering and slowly developed a friendship before Dhillon proposed marriage. She described him as a loyal, caring and thoughtful partner.
“I thought he was a very good person. He was innocent and loyal, and he was a perfect match for me. He did everything for me, and I can't forget his love,” she said.
Kaur also recalled how excited Dhillon was about becoming a father. Their daughter, she said, often asks about him and resembles her father, especially his smile.
Dhillon’s funeral was held on Wednesday and witnessed a large turnout, with mourners travelling from across New Zealand to pay their respects. A fundraising page for the family has raised over 33,000 to help cover funeral expenses, rent and daily living costs.