Scene map helps fatal crash inquiry

Senior constable Regan Framp mapped out the road as part of an investigation into the death of Eileen Rangituiwa Gardiner. Photo / Stephen Parker

An investigation into the death of Rotorua woman Eileen Rangituiwa Gardiner has made progress over the weekend with police mapping the road where the crash happened.

Senior constable Regan Framp of the Rotorua police said the section of road where the accident happened was closed yesterday morning so he could carry out the technical investigations and create a map to pass to the officer in charge of the investigation.

"There are lots of hands involved in an investigation like this, I can't say how long it will take," said Mr Framp. "I took all the measurements this morning and now I will give the map to the next investigator."

Mr Framp said it was a long and thorough process.

Ms Gardiner died after being hit by an InterCity bus near the intersection with Coulter Rd. The incident happened at 7.40pm on April 30, and the road was closed for several hours while emergency services carried out their scene examination.

Residents on Te Ngae Rd told the Rotorua Daily Post the woman had run on to the road to save her dog but police said it was too early in the investigation to confirm the details.

Those who knew her, including her neighbour and business owners in the area, described her as a "lovely lady" who was often seen walking her dog.

InterCity general manager Sam Peate previously said it was running its own investigation. He was not able to be reached for comment yesterday.

The section of Te Ngae Rd by Coulter Rd, near the Owhata shops, was closed on Sunday from 7am until 9.30am for the investigation.