Child dies after accident closes SH1 south of Whangārei in Mata

A child died after an accident on State Highway 1 south of Whangārei.

Emergency services came to the scene, in Mata, shortly after 7.35 pm.

Police said that despite the efforts of emergency services, the boy died at the scene.

They said the highway will be closed for some time.

Car detours are being implemented at Salmon Rd and Springfield Rd.

Heavy vehicles will need to use SH12 heading south.

Police said they would provide more information about the accident, including injuries, as soon as they were confirmed.

Last weekend, eight people died on our roads during the official toll period of the work weekend.

It was the worst figure since 2011.

During the horrific weekend, Acting Superintendent Gini Welch, national manager of road enforcement, called on drivers to watch out for one another.

“Our frontline personnel have seen four fatal accidents across the country since the official weekend period began at 4 pm yesterday,” Welch said last Saturday.

“We have also responded to a number of other serious accidents that have resulted in significant injuries to those involved.

“While it is too early to speak about the cause of these accidents, we will continue to relentlessly remind people that we all have a role to play in keeping our roads safe.

“With high volumes of traffic on our roads this long weekend, we implore you to keep your speed down, pay attention to your surroundings and conditions, and watch the distances that follow to ensure you arrive alive.

“Most people behave safely on the roads most of the time, but it only takes a risky decision or a moment of inattention to cause a tragedy.

“Ultimately, the actions of each driver and cyclist make a difference.”