Meanwhile, a cyclist who died after colliding with a vehicle in Wānaka was believed to be travelling at speed on the wrong side of the road and not wearing a helmet, police say.
Police are calling for witnesses following the Oamaru pedestrian's death on Sunday.
In a statement, police said emergency services were called to a serious crash involving a vehicle and a pedestrian between Fernbrook Rd and Redcastle Rd on SH1, about 5.55pm.
Detective Kevin Kirkman, of Oamaru, confirmed yesterday the fatal crash occurred near Iona Home and the Galleon Family Complex.
The investigation into the crash was under way.
"We would like to hear if anyone saw anything or recorded it, or has dashcam footage," Det Kirkman said.
A police source said it was believed a woman slipped on to the road before being hit by a vehicle.
"What we understand is a 78-year-old female was visiting somebody at a hospice.
"When she left with a group of friends, she stumbled, possibly slipped in her high-heel boots and stumbled on to the road and was then hit by the car.
"She had a low pulse upon police arrival, and then she had a cardiac event."
He collided with a vehicle turning left into Plantation Rd.
Police understood he was travelling on the wrong side of Plantation Rd when he collided with the side of the vehicle at speed.
He was not wearing a helmet.
The nature of the crash made it unlikely any charges would be laid against the driver, Snr Const Perkins said.
The incident should serve as a reminder to all road users to be mindful of their surroundings and potential hazards, especially during periods of limited light in winter.
Several bouquets of flowers sat on a traffic island at the intersection yesterday, including one with a message made on behalf of local advocacy group Bike Wānaka.
"The Bike Wānaka community has been hit hard by the news and there has been lots of messages over the weekend and laying of flowers at the site.
"I have been in contact with the police to provide support for the family when that is appropriate.
"To the family back in Japan, we want to let them know that we, too, feel their loss and understand how difficult it is for them being so far from where his passing happened.
"It has affected the community deeply here."
He acknowledged the "complex layout" of the area where the death occurred, which includes the busy junction of a state highway, a cross-town link road and several cycle and shared paths.
— Regan Harris and Jules Chin
