Friends and family farewell Auckland crash victim

Robbie Taylor was killed when the car he was travelling in went out of control and crashed into a tree on Ian McKinnon Drive. Photo / Dean Purcell

A large number of students, staff and parents gathered at St Peter's College this afternoon to commemorate the life of 17-year-old Robbie Taylor who died in a car accident this weekend.

The teen, who was due to enter his final year at college, was killed when the car he was travelling in went out of control and crashed into a tree on Ian McKinnon Drive, Eden Terrace on Sunday afternoon.

Two others, the driver and another passenger, were also injured in the accident.

Today, headmaster James Bentley said a large number of students, staff and parents gathered at the school to share in a memorial liturgy for the popular student.

On its Facebook page the college's first XV team also paid its tribute and offered its condolences to the young man's family.

"Rest in peace Robbie Taylor. The news of the passing of such a young man in the St Peter's community is very tragic. Rest in Love Robbie and St Peter will no doubt open the gate to heaven for one of its own angels."

Yesterday, friends also paid their tribute to the 17-year-old, describing him as a keen comedian that was fun to be around.

Close friend James Cameron had known Mr Taylor since Year Nine and had been looking forward to seeing out their final year together.

"He was pretty much a comedian and funny to be around. He was pretty bright, even in class he was the type you'd want to sit next to."

Mr Cameron also reflected on what he saw as the injustice around his friend's death.

"He was just in the car with them ... he didn't deserve it ... they were boy-racing, but it was just unfortunate that he was involved in this."

A police spokeswoman said the investigation into the crash was ongoing and was expected to take several weeks to complete.

She said so far no one had been arrested and no charges had been laid.