Oamaru is in "shock" this morning but will rally around the family of a 14-year-old girl killed in a hit-and-run incident. / ODT
A sombre crowd of about 200 gathered at Ōamaru's skatepark today to share tears, hugs and memories of local teen Zara Blackie, who was struck and killed near State Highway 1 this week.
Zara's parents and siblings were joined at the park by a group largely made up of pupilsfrom Blackie's school, St Kevin's College.
During the gathering the area near where the 14-year-old was struck was blessed by kaumatua David Higgins, from Moeraki.
Boys from Waitaki Boys' High School performed a haka, followed by an emotional haka by boys and girls from St Kevin's College.
Zara Blackie, right, with brother Hayden and friend Rakyla Marsters. Photo / Supplied
St Kevin's principal Paul Olsen spoke to the crowd telling them Zara was an "energetic and vibrant young lady".
"To see her potential cut short is a tragedy. The college community is in mourning, but I thank the wider community for the support they have extended a this time of great loss."
Zara's mother Wendy Blackie said her daughter would have been proud of those who came along.
"She would have wanted to be out there [with the crowd]."
