The accident happened near the Rhythm and Vines music festival. Photo: Google Maps
Two pedestrians killed when they were hit by a vehicle in Gisborne around 9.15pm on New Year's Eve were on the road at the time, it has emerged.
Police today said their initial enquiries had found the pair had "exited the vehicle they had been travelling in shortly before the incident occurred, and were on the road when they were struck by another vehicle".
"The driver of the other vehicle stopped immediately, and they are understandably extremely distressed by what has occurred."
Previous reports said the pair - one in their teens and the other in his 30s, reportedly brothers-in-law - were on their way to music festival Rhythm and Vines. The road where the incident happened, Back Ormond Rd, is rural and has no footpath.
Police said they were providing support to the families of the deceased and the driver of the vehicle that hit them.
"Anyone who might have witnessed the incident and has not yet spoken with us is asked to come forward."
Police said potential witnesses should call 105 and quote file number 230101/1336.