Tributes flow for toddler killed in crash

Maddison Daisy Ward , 2, died in a horrific crash in the Bay of Plenty.

The young girl who was killed in a crash in the Bay of Plenty at the weekend has been described as a "cheeky monkey" who lit up the lives of those she met.

Maddison Daisy Ward, 2, from Oropi, died after a car veered into a power pole on Oropi Rd, outside Tauranga, and smashed through a fence into a paddock on Sunday evening.

It was believed the driver failed to negotiate a left-hand bend near Castles Rd.

Maddison's parents Andrew and Telle have described her as a "much loved daughter" in the infant's death notice.

"Very treasured, cheeky monkey to John and Donna Ward, and light of my life to Karen Braddock," the notice continued.

"A bright little button to everyone who met her."

A service for Maddison will be held at Tauranga Park tomorrow.

Meanwhile, Dean Ward posted a tribute to Maddison on Facebook, saying his "heart goes out" to her family.

"She was a beautiful young girl that did not one bit deserve this. You will always have friends and family here with arms wide open to help and a shoulder to cry on. Love u all lots," he said.

Jasmin Kille described Maddison as an "amazing little girl".

Other friends of Mr Ward's described Maddison as "beautiful" and "gorgeous", with one saying she was "taken far too soon, it's just not fair".

It is understood Maddison was seated in a child restraint at the rear-left of the car.

She was trapped inside the wreckage for a time, and attempts to save her were unsuccessful.

The driver did not suffer any injuries but was taken to Tauranga Hospital.

The cause of the crash was still under investigation, Senior Sergeant Ian Campion, officer in charge of western Bay of Plenty road policing, said.

The condition of the road would form part of the investigation.

"However, early indications suggest there was no substance on the road that could have contributed to the crash," Mr Campion said.

"The road was, however, wet."

His comments followed concerns from residents of an oil slick on the road at the time of the crash.

There have been a number of crashes in recent years, including two other fatals, at the left-hand corner which comes after a long downhill stretch.

NZME.