Trinity Catholic College pupil Enere McLaren-Taana, 16, died after being rushed to hospital following an assault yesterday afternoon.
A 13-year-old boy appeared in court this morning charged with murder.
Trinity principal Kate Nicholson said the school's hearts "go out to his whānau who are going through this terrible loss".
"It is so devastating, heartbreaking and sad to lose someone so young and full of energy and promise in such a senseless and horrific way.
Enere was a former pupil of King's High School and acting rector Darin Smith said the school was "in shock".
"The young man involved, he is well connected with a number our young men in so many aspects of his life, particularly in the sporting domain. I am aware that they share a love of a number of sports with him.
"They are hurting they are going through a range of emotions right now and as I convey to my team our role and our responsibility is to support each other and support our young men through what is a really difficult time for them."
Others described the victim as "a wonderful young man" and "the kindest, sweetest, politest boy".
"He was one of the good ones!"
A woman, who did not want to be named, said she found about the stabbing yesterday.
She said she had seen the victim skateboard past where she lived and he seemed like a "lovely, beautiful young man".
"I just know that he was a very sweet, lovely little skater that used to hoon past.
"I just used to think what a cool little guy, he’s very talented at that age."
A 16-year-old acquaintance of Enere's, Lilly Livett said "we didn’t think it would be him to be honest".
"You just never think it would be someone you know."
Otago Rugby League also paid tribute.
"Our community has been rocked with the news of the passing of one of our beautiful young men.
"All the aroha to Enere’s whānau in this impossibly difficult time.
"To any players feeling it today, please reach out to each other, your whānau."
