The 18-year-old driver will appear in the Rotorua District Court on January 10, charged with dangerous driving causing death and 10 charges of dangerous driving causing injury.
Bay of Plenty district road policing manager, Inspector Kevin Taylor, said it was a devastating crash that had an immediate and wide impact on the Rotorua and Bay of Plenty communities, and around New Zealand.
"This was a particularly nasty crash, where we were incredibly lucky that more young lives were not lost."
Mr Taylor said an extensive serious crash investigation had been under way since the crash on July 17, with the determination made this week that there was sufficient evidence to charge the driver.
"Every serious crash is treated with the resources and respect it deserves. However, given the particularly serious and sensitive nature of the crash, and involving such a large number of victims, it was absolutely critical in this case," he said.
"Investigations like this simply cannot be rushed - it was important that the investigators took the time that they needed to cover every detail that was or could have been a factor in the incident."
Mr Taylor said this week's developments and subsequent charges served as a timely reminder for everyone using New Zealand's roads - particularly over the festive season.
"Just one crash this holiday period will be one crash too many. Please, make the right decisions to keep yourself, your family and your friends safe on the roads.
"It comes down to the same tried and true advice - slow down, drive to the conditions, wear your seatbelt, and don't drink and drive.
Meanwhile, Mr Taylor said the investigation into the second fatal crash that week which killed 18-year-old Kristi Ruri-Gardiner is now complete, and will be referred to the Coroner shortly.
- NZHERALD STAFF
