Settlers Way. Photo: Google Maps
Police say a 27-year-old man has been charged over an alleged fatal hit-and-run in the Far North town of Ōkaihau.
Detective Senior Sergeant Kevan Verry, of Northland CIB, said the Kaikohe man had been charged with failing to stop or ascertain injury, but further charges were possible.
He was due in the Kaikohe District Court on Friday.
Verry said an investigation had been under way since a 19-year-old cyclist was killed on Settlers Way about 10.15pm on Tuesday.
He said there had been a strong public response following the tragedy, with a number of locals providing information.
Police enquiries in the town had included checkpoints looking for a damaged vehicle.
Verry said Victim Support was helping the cyclist's family.
The fatality shocked residents in the small, close-knit town, which is on State Highway 1 about 20km west of Kerikeri.
Another resident told RNZ police had gone door-to-door at businesses, asking for information and any CCTV that might have captured the car.
She said officers set up a checkpoint at the start of Settlers Way, opposite Two Ponga Park, and were stopping every car travelling through the town.
Ōkaihau has a population of about 370, according to Census data, but is a service town for the wider area with primary and secondary schools, two dairies, two cafes and several other businesses.
It is also an emerging cycle tourism destination, thanks to its location on the popular Twin Coast Cycle Trail from the Bay of Islands to Hokianga.
Verry said police were still seeking witnesses.
"We know that there were several vehicles travelling on Settlers Road at the time, between 10pm and 10.15pm. I'm still asking that those people make contact with us."
Anyone with information could contact police online or by calling 105, quoting the reference number 250129/0360.
Information could also be provided anonymously via Crime Stoppers on 0800 555 111.
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