A pedestrian who died after being hit by a truck on State Highway One in Raumati, north of Wellington, early this morning, was hitch-hiking in dark clothing, police believe.
Rodney Thompson, 46, was struck near Queen Elizabeth Park about 3am and died at the scene.
Police believe several motorists saw Mr Thompson on the side of road. One may have had a near miss but didn't alert authorities.
Senior Sergeant Alasdair Macmillan said: "Police do not recommend that anyone hitch-hikes for a variety of safety reasons - especially near a four-lane state highway at night with cars travelling at open road speeds.
"Anyone who is concerned about someone's safety or behaviour on the road, or who has a near miss, should call Police immediately on 111."
