Ōkaihau cyclist who died after alleged hit-and-run named

Matthew Mark Howard died of his injuries on January 28. Photo / Mike Dinsdale

Police have released the name of the 19-year-old cyclist who died in Ōkaihau last month, following what police have alleged was a hit-and-run.

He was Matthew Mark Howard.

Police were notified of the incident by Settlers Way residents around 10.15pm on January 28.

During their investigation police appealed for public information which was followed by a strong public response.

A 27-year-old man was then charged with failing to stop or ascertain injury.

He is expected to reappear in court on February 28.

The man has interim name suppression until his next appearance when it would be readdressed.

Brodie Stone covers crime and emergency for the Northern Advocate. She has spent most of her life in Whangārei and is passionate about delving into issues that matter to Northlanders and beyond.