Police Ten-7 airs case of Nelson Hari, killed in Ruatoria hit-and-run

Police have renewed appeals for the driver of a second car involved in a fatal Ruatoria hit-and-run on Easter Sunday to come forward.

Local man Nelson Hari, 25, had been at a wedding at the Te Heapera Marae when he decided to walk home about midnight on April 15.

At 12.30am he was found lying in Tapuaeroa Rd. He received first aid at the scene but could not be revived.

Police appealed for information on Police Ten-7 tonight, explaining two vehicles were involved. The first knocked Hari to the ground, and the second hit him as he was lying in the road.

Police have spoken with the second driver, but the first has never come forward.

Speaking on Police Ten-7, Detective Sergeant Rob Lemoto said Hari's family are still struggling to come to terms with his death.

Friends and family of Ruatoria man Nelson Hari want closure over his hit-and-run death in April. Photo / Supplied

"No one knows what happened that night but by driving off and not coming forward the person responsible has left Nelson's family in unimaginable pain."

"The burden of keeping this secret from the family and community will be huge," he said.

"The family just can't move on until they get some closure."

Sister Josselle said on the programme she just wants to know what happened to her brother, who was her "best friend" and adored by everyone.

"I couldn't believe it, I still can't believe it now. Seeing my mum cry ever day, it's hard. [I] just want it to be over. Just please do the right thing and come forward. It's not too late."

The first car would likely be badly damaged, Detective Sergeant Glen Burrell said.

He asked anyone who knows of vehicles in Ruatoria that had significant damage to the front about April 16 to contact police.

"The information you have may not seem like much to you, but it could be just what police need to solve this crime."

Anyone with information can contact Gisborne Police on (06) 869 0200 or Crimestoppers anonymously on 0800 555 111.