The Gisborne community is rallying around the family of a girl who was killed by a rubbish truck on Tuesday afternoon.
Six-year-old Carla Neems was walking home from school when she was struck by the truck on Russell St in Whataupoko.
A Givealittle page set up by friends of the family reads: "We are devastated and heartbroken by the tragic loss of their precious little girl, Carla.
"We all want to help and show this family our love but many of us do not know what to do. This page has been set up for family, friends and people in the community to pass on a message to the family and show their support."
By Friday morning almost $12,000 had been donated and hundreds of messages of support posted. Police Victim Support has been helping the family, which has asked for privacy at this stage, the Gisborne Herald reports.
Students at Gisborne Central School, where Carla attended, will be monitored in the coming weeks. A funeral will be held at the school on Friday afternoon.
The school said in a statement: "The family have asked that to celebrate the bright sparkle that Carla brought to all our lives, you are invited to wear something bright and colourful to the service.
"Children can bring a pillow or soft toy to cuddle and they are welcome to sit with their family or towards the front of the hall with Carla."
Police say the serious crash unit is investigating the tragedy, and thanked members of the public who assisted at the scene.
"Police extend their condolences and thoughts to the family and friends of the deceased at this difficult time."
Waste Management NZ, which operates rubbish trucks in Gisborne, is working with WorkSafe and police in investigating the incident.
Newshub.
