New Zealand

Fatal New Year's Eve Gisborne crash: Names released

12:15 pm on 6 January 2023

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Police have released the names of several recent fatal crash victims, including two men who were killed on New Year's Eve on their way to the Rhythm and Vines festival in Gisborne.

Waylon Uatuku, 18, and Jardon Thomas Te Hau, 31, both of Gisborne, died in the accident around 9.15pm on 31 December when they were struck by a vehicle while walking on the road.

Police also released the names of two people who died in a single vehicle crash on Evans St in Timaru on 29 December.

They were Tatana Kerei Pehi and Jay Hamuera DJ Ross, both 21 and from Timaru.

Police said in a statement they extended their condolences to their whānau and friends.

The provisional holiday period road toll of 21 deaths was among the highest in recent years, police have said.

Police Assistant Commissioner Bruce O'Brien earlier said it was completely unacceptable for 21 people to lose their lives in crashes over this year's holiday period.

"Police can't be on every single road at every single moment so we really need people to take that responsibility when they get in their car because the absolutely devastating consequences that this has for families and friends that are left behind is just terrible."