A “community-minded” dancer from Wellington was among the victims who died in the Kaikōura photography boat trip.

Susan Cade along with four other people died when the 8.5m charter vessel they were in capsized off Goose Bay around 10 am on Saturday.

Susan was a dancer with Wellington based Feet with Heat dance studio, a dance school specialising in Rock’n’Roll, Lindy Hop, Ballroom, Peabody, American Latin and Charleston dance styles.

Owner Jo told Chris Lynch “we have finally heard our friend Student and dance colleague Susan Cade was one of the five who lost her life.”

“We are all shocked and extremely devastated.”

Feet with Heat dance studio’s Facebook page also paid tribute to Susan.

“Your life was cut short while on your adventure. We will all miss your smiley face your sense of humor and your friendship.”

Former Wellington Mayor Celia Wade-Brown also paid tribute to Susan describing her as a “warm, community-minded woman, a kayaker, dancer, photographer and no doubt much more.

Our sympathies and condolences to all her family, colleagues and friends.”

Maritime NZ staff will lead the investigation in the tragic events, which will involve reviewing the conditions on the day, examining the vessel and interviewing people involved.

Maritime NZ’s investigators are working alongside police and Transport Accident Investigation Commission staff who are also establishing what happened.

The exact circumstances surrounding the incident are still to be established.