New Zealand / Regional

Man charged over Otorohanga 'hit and run'

18:54 pm on 6 April 2016

A 21-year-old man has been arrested and charged over what police are describing as a hit and run, which claimed the life of a teenager in the King Country.

Ocean Heke, 17, from Te Kuiti, was found dead on Main North Road (State Highway 3) near the Waikato town of Otorohanga about 6.30am on Sunday.

Police said earlier in the week Ms Heke had injuries consistent with being hit by a vehicle.

Waikato police said this evening that a 21-year-old Te Kuiti man had been arrested over the incident and charged with driving while under the influence of alcohol causing death

He will appear in the Hamilton District court tomorrow.

Detective Senior Sergeant Ross Patterson said police would continue to gather information about the incident and would still like to hear from anyone who had useful information.

"I am grateful to the communities of Te Kuiti and Otorohanga for supporting our inquiry and I hope they continue to do so for this terrible tragedy."