The 14-year-old killed in a crash near Turangi on Sunday has been name as Roman Biddle from Taupo.
Police believe he was at the wheel of a four-wheel-drive, also carrying a 15-year-old girl and 16-year-old boy, that rolled on a gravel road.
The two other teens received minor injuries.
Police said inquiries into the incident were continuing but the dead boy was not wearing a seatbelt.
"Police cannot emphasis enough the importance of wearing safety belts on all journeys," said Senior Sergeant Fane Troy.
