A woman killed after being struck by a car in Auckland on Christmas Day was a mother of six whose family is now "in shock".
Charlotte Tyrrell, 28, died after being hit by a vehicle on Rosamund Ave, New Windsor just before 10pm on December 25. Police said at the time an investigation had been launched into the incident.
A Givealittle set up by the woman's family reveals she left behind six children, one only born two months ago. As of Thursday morning, it had raised nearly $35,000 - with the money intended to help Tyrrell's parents raise her kids.
"We love her and her children very much and are in shock that she was taken away from us at the young age of 28," the fundraiser page says.
"She had so much to live for, she was bubbly, caring and a very strong woman. We have a long road ahead of us as a family to sort out her affairs, funeral and raise her children."
Multiple tributes have also been posted to social media.
"Our family gathering won't be the same without you," one person wrote.
"You've always been a boss mama… heartbroken to hear the news of your passing," said another.
In a statement to the NZ Herald on Thursday, Tyrrell's family said what was meant to be a "happy, family-filled day ended in our worst nightmare". They said her death had "left a hole in our hearts and lives that we don't know how we will fill".
Seventeen people died on New Zealand roads over the Christmas/New Years holiday period. That's the highest number in five years and an increase from 11 the year prior.
"Whānau and friends who lost loved ones in crashes should have been able to enjoy this holiday period with them, not planning their tangi or funeral," police assistant commissioner Bruce O'Brien said on Wednesday.
"The impact on whānau, friends and communities cannot be measured when someone is killed in a road crash."
