The Wellington longboarding community are mourning the loss of one of their own after a 21-year-old man was struck by a vehicle while riding down a steep Kapiti Coast road.
Police say the tragic incident now brings the Easter holiday road toll to three.
Longboarding appears to be what Tristan Hunter loved doing the most, but sadly it was his passion that cost him his life.
The 21-year-old from Raumati, north of Wellington, was struck by a vehicle following him on a windy road near Paraparaumu. He died at the scene.
Mr Hunter was a well-known part of Wellington's longboarding fraternity, and often posted videos and pictures of his rides to social media.
Windy roads, top speeds and oncoming traffic all feature regularly.
In footage he is seen racing past the camera, a white vehicle following just a few metres behind.
Today there were flowers laid at the scene of the incident.
His Facebook page was full of tributes from friends, family and his boarding brothers and sisters.
A family member told Newshub he was trying to go professional, and planned to take his skating to the US. They say they're heartbroken by the incident, but hope footage of his talent will live on, even sharing his video in the hope it'll go viral.
Newshub spoke to a number of people in the longboarding community who all agree safety is paramount. One says it's still too early to talk about the death of their friend, but believe it's important boarders skate within their limits.
Police say an investigation into the death is still ongoing, but are urging motorists to keep a safe distance on the roads.
Newshub.
