Taurua returned home last week to be with her father, Kingi Taurua, with Lightning assistant coach Kylee Byrne assuming coaching duties for the team’s Round 4 win against Magpies Netball.
Byrne will again lead the team against the Adelaide Thunderbirds on Sunday as Taurua remains in New Zealand with her family.
In a statement, the Lightning said Taurua’s father was a highly respected and influential Maori leader.
“It is with sadness Sunshine Coast Lightning advises head coach Noeline Taurua’s father, Kingi Taurua, passed away yesterday following a battle with cancer,” the statement saud.
“Kingi Taurua, a Ngāpuhi elder, is well known within New Zealand. He was a strong advocate for Maori rights, an award-winning broadcaster, an advisor to government ministers and a Vietnam War veteran.”
“The club’s thoughts are with Noeline and her family during this difficult time.”
