A teenager has been killed in an early morning crash after police said there were reports of "illegal street racing activity" near Rangiora, north of Christchurch.
The crash happened just before 4.45am this morning, after police said they were "called to a report of illegal street racing activity in the Fernside area".
"Police followed an offending vehicle for a short time but then stopped due to the manner of driving and the urban environment," a police spokesperson said.
Police said they were "called to a report of illegal street racing activity" before the crash. (Source: 1News)
"The vehicle was found crashed into the side of a house on McIvor Place, Rangiora after it appeared to have hit a tree. No one in the house was hurt."
There were four people in the car at the time of the crash, according to police, and the incident has been referred to the Independent Police Conduct Authority (IPCA).
"An 18-year-old female passenger died at the scene," a police spokesperson said.
"Police are liaising with the family of the deceased.
"An 18-year-old male has been arrested and is being questioned by police."
In a later update, police said the 18-year-old man was due to appear in court this week.
He is charged with "dangerous driving causing death, failing to stop, and other driving related charges".
Two other people inside the car at the time of the crash are uninjured and speaking to authorities, police said.
"Several investigations will now take place, including inquiries by the serious crash unit.
"The matter has been self-referred to the IPCA," police said.
Waimakariri District Council Mayor Dan Gordon issued a statement on the crash this afternoon.
He said the council will assist police "in any way we can".
"I want to extend my deepest sympathies to the family and friends of the young woman who tragically died this morning," he said.
"I also want to acknowledge the family whose house was crashed into as that too must have been traumatic.
"Waimakariri is a tight-knit District and this loss, and crashes of this nature, will have a profound effect on everyone involved."
Gordon said the event was a sad reminder of the need to take care when driving.
"I want to thank the dedicated emergency services personnel who attended the scene," he added.
"I know this would have been particularly difficult."
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