Head-on crash victim doing well

Two cars involved in a head-on car crash Wednesday, 25 July, at 11.35pm. Cheyenne Ihaka, 16, died when the car he was driving, a Ford Falcon, hit the other car, with Sheree Painter in it.

The midwife who suffered severe leg and abdominal injuries in a head-on road smash near Pahiatua last week is doing well, says a spokesperson at Palmerston North hospital.

Sheree Painter has been moved from the Intensive Care Unit to a general orthopaedic ward, following surgery on her legs.

Ms Painter was returning home from Masterton when her car and a southbound car collided on State Highway 2 5km south of Pahiatua.

The other driver, 16-year-old Cheyenne Ihaka from Eketahuna, died at the scene. His passenger was injured.

Police said it appeared Ihaka's car had crossed the centreline, colliding with Ms Painter. He was an unlicenced driver and police believe alcohol was a factor.

Ms Painter is the wife of Wayne Roache, the Eketahuna Rugby premier team coach.

Mr Roache said he did not wish to comment on his wife's progress as it was still an "emotional time".