A Havelock North woman, who was killed after being struck by a bakery delivery van on Saturday, loved the outdoors and was just about to embark on a camping holiday around New Zealand with her husband.
Hilary Evelyn Haward, 57, died instantly and her husband Brinley Haward, 58, received a dislocated shoulder and cuts after they were hit by the truck about 9.20am. Mr Haward is in a comfortable condition in Rotorua Hospital.
The couple were holidaying in Taupo and cycling back to their room at the Lake Taupo Top 10 Holiday Resort, when the accident happened shortly after the Ironman race began. Mr and Mrs Haward moved to Hawke's Bay three years ago, from Plimmerton, and quickly became active in the Havelock North Rotary Club and Hastings Golf Club. They were originally from England, but had lived in New Zealand for about 30 years.
Club captain Sarah Calver spoke of an "absolutely delightful" couple who enjoyed golf, travelling and adored their two adult daughters. Ms Calver said Mrs Haward was an "elegant lady" and a keen golfer on an eight handicap. "She was always a busy beaver, always immaculate and just lovely," she said.
The couple were enjoying their retirement in Havelock North.
"They just loved Hawke's Bay, they loved being here," she said.
Golf partner and friend Lois Campbell said she was shattered to hear the news.
"They loved each other's company, and were a very devoted couple."
They had just bought a caravan and were looking forward to heading out and exploring the countryside. Mrs Harward was a lovely woman, a very good golfer and a great friend, Mrs Campbell said.
She said the Harwards were planning to travel down to Wellington tomorrow to see their daughter and her partner off on their OE.
Club President Mike Konig spoke of an outgoing couple who loved their new home.
"He's a wonderful guy, always positive and always had a laugh about things. She was a lovely person. This is devastating," he said.
The Haward's had just built their dream home in Duart Road, Havelock North and enjoyed putting about the house and building their garden.
"They were very sporting people, and all around a very pleasant couple," Mr Konig said.
The crash happened on Spa Road, and police erected canvas to try to hide the scene from competitors who had to cycled past in the endurance race. However, the truck - with visible damage on the front left hand corner - and the couple's mangled bikes were clear to many competitors. Bike parts were strewn for metres.
Inspector Kevin Taylor, of Taupo police said it was too early to know the exact cause of the crash.
Mr Taylor said the couple were wearing helmets and believed to be riding in single file.
Senior Sergeant Murray Hamilton said the driver of light truck was in shock. He said inquiries were focusing on where on the road the cyclists and the truck were at the time of the crash.
Charges were being considered.
Bay couple's holiday ride ends in horror
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