The Hawke’s Bay community is mourning the heartbreaking passing of Monique Lay, affectionately known as “Monz Dogg,” following an accident in Hastings.
Monique died on August 27, 2026, leaving her māmā, siblings, children, immediate whānau and many others grieving the loss of a woman whose life was described by her loved ones as one that touched countless people.
News of Monique’s passing was shared on behalf of her whānau pani, who announced her death with heavy hearts while inviting those who knew and loved her to come together to remember and celebrate her life.
The announcement conveyed the profound grief surrounding her death while also emphasizing the importance of gathering as a community. Monique’s loved ones have encouraged friends, relatives and others who shared a connection with her to come together to celebrate the person she was rather than allowing the circumstances of her death to define her memory.
According to the family announcement, Monique is currently with funeral directors and is expected to be released into the care of her whānau on Saturday afternoon, August 29.
She is then expected to lie at Ōtara for one night, where people who knew her and shared a connection with her will be welcomed to attend.
Monique is expected to return home to Hawke’s Bay on Sunday, August 30. Further details concerning the time and location of her return and subsequent arrangements are expected to be confirmed by her whānau as plans develop.
For those who knew Monique as “Monz Dogg,” her memory is tied to the personality and energy she brought into the lives of others. Her whānau described a woman whose presence had an impact on many people, creating friendships and memories that will remain with those who loved her.
The family has invited people attending to share stories, sing songs, shed tears, laugh together and share kai in Monique’s honour. The gathering is intended to provide a space where grief and celebration can exist together as loved ones remember the life she shared with them.
Her children and immediate whānau are facing an especially painful period following her sudden death. The loss of a mother and family member has left an absence that will be deeply felt as relatives begin preparing to say goodbye.
The circumstances of the accident in Hastings have not been detailed publicly in the family announcement, and further information should be treated cautiously unless confirmed by authorities or Monique’s whānau.
For the Hawke’s Bay community, the coming days will be a time of mourning, remembrance and togetherness. Friends and loved ones will have an opportunity to stand alongside Monique’s family, share memories and offer support during an extraordinarily difficult time.
Although her life has been cut short, the memories created with Monique will remain with her children, whānau, friends and the many people whose lives she touched.
Her family’s invitation to gather reflects the way they want her to be remembered — through stories, laughter, music, tears, shared food and the connections that made Monique Lay, “Monz Dogg,” so loved.
