A three-year-old child was killed last night after being struck by a car on a driveway near Taupo.
Taupo police said they were called to the incident at Hatepe village near Taupo at 8.55pm on Christmas Eve.
It appeared that a woman was leaving a property down a shared driveway on Te Mako Mako Lane when her car struck a three-year-old boy, said police.
Attempts to revive the boy at the scene were unsuccessful.
Police said the death of a child was tragic at any time but was particularly poignant given the death occurred on Christmas Eve.
"Our thoughts go out to the family at this incredibly difficult time.''
The identity of the little boy will not be released until next of kin have been advised.
Police are currently investigating the incident and providing support for the family.
