Woman killed near Mair Park named

Mair Park, carpark. PICTURE/Michael Cunningham

Police have released the name of the woman who died in a fatal crash in Whangarei on Sunday afternoon.

She was Natalie Lauren Ahlers, 53, of Whangarei.

Mrs Ahlers was walking along Rurumoki Street when she was hit by a reversing car about 3.30pm.

She was taken to Whangarei Hospital by ambulance but could not be saved.

Rurumoki St residents have become increasingly concerned about the parking congestion in their small street which is the gateway to Mair Park and walking tracks over Mt Parihaka.

As well as families, recreational and sporting users, it has become increasingly popular with businesses operating fitness classes.

It is unclear whether congestion was a factor in Sunday's accident, in which a car is believed to have accelerated in reverse suddenly.

Road policing Senior Sergeant John Fagan said a woman's Honda vehicle had become stuck after its front wheels rolled over a kerb.

Members of the public helped her push the car out.

As the car gained traction it sped backwards.

Police say the driver tried to brake but her jandal became wedged between the brake and accelerator pedals.

The car collided with the woman, and pinned her against another parked car. Police are investigating the crash and whether charges will be laid.