Jordan Logan McKeown (14) was playing with friends on an arcade roof at Caroline Bay in Timaru when he fell through a skylight about 7pm last night.
Members of his family who spoke to NZME News Service said he was a "cheeky and fun-loving" boy who loved to skate.
Jordan went to the skatepark most days. He also loved camping, playing rugby and spending time with friends.
He was a good brother and loved his mum, the family said.
"He had a beautiful smile, was always very polite and a very caring boy," a family member said.
"He had a big group of friends that loved him, and he loved all his friends."
The family are all gathered at Jordan's home today.
Claire Burt, a friend of Jordan, who described him as a "wee brother" to her, said he was "the nicest kid".
"He was my neighbour's best friend and they would always come over an see me and my partner, so he was like a wee brother to both of us," she said.
"He was one of the most kind-hearted people I have ever met. I could talk with him for hours and he would always make me feel good about myself.
"He honestly was the nicest kid. I never heard him talk badly about anyone and he would always be asking people if they need a hand with things and no matter what age you were he would treat you like you were his best mate.
"He would go out of his way just to make sure I was ok.
"He will be missed by so many because he touched everyone he came across."
Several of Jordan's Facebook friends have been writing messages on his page.
Zara Poi-Walker said she couldn't believe he had gone.
"I just wish it was a bad dream and someone's gonna pinch me and I'll wake up and you'll still be here! I just wish we had more time together, you were such a loving boy and it breaks my heart to see that your gone! Taken away far to early Jordan!! Miss and love you bro fly high! 5th of November 2015 will always remember (sic)."
Anashae Redditt wrote that he was a "brave kind young boy who had a lot going for him".
"The Angels now have a beautiful young boy surrounding them I hope you like it up there and I'll see you when I see you stay cool (sic)."
Tia Hayes wrote: "Jordan rest easy man, i couldnt believe it when i heard about it and realised it was you, you were such a cool kid always got along with everyone. Thinking of you and your family, rip (sic)."
Ricky Holden wrote: "OMG HEAVEN HAS GAINED 1 OF THE MOST CHEEKIEST FUNNIEST KIND HEARTIEST KID ON THE BLOCK, I'm putting out all my positive loving caring vibes out to the universe tonight for you Jordan, and your siblings & family and especially your mummy bear, I'm going to keep our memories forever, I'm so shocked with this horrible as news!! Take way too soon, love you Jordan my bro. You're a beautiful angel now (sic)."
Jordan was a student at Timaru Boys' High School. The school referred NZME's calls to police.
Detective Sergeant Greg Harrison said police understood Jordan was playing with friends on the roof of the facility.
"The death is not being treated as suspicious and police have a number of witnesses yet to interview," he said.
Mid-South Canterbury area commander Inspector Dave Gaskin said it appeared he had put his foot on the wrong piece of roof at the wrong time.
"It's a terrible accident," he said.
Police were at the scene again this morning trying to piece together exactly what had happened, he said.
The investigation is continuing.
