Alcohol possible factor in Hamilton pedestrian's death

Alcohol appears to have been a factor that contributed to the death of a Hamilton pedestrian killed on a central city street early this morning.

Waikato Police District Road Policing Manager, Inspector Leo Tooman, said emergency services were called to the scene of the incident on Thackeray St, near the Anglesea Medical Centre, about 3.30am.

"The incident is still under investigation by both the Serious Crash Unit and the Commercial Vehicle Investigation Unit, however initial indications are our victim, a 27-year-old Hamilton man, was seen by witnesses to wander out on to the road.

"The man has reached the middle of the road and then stepped into the path of an oncoming taxi van where he was struck down and dragged a short distance by the vehicle."

Mr Tooman said staff from the adjacent medical centre were quickly on the scene however the man died of his injuries despite efforts to resuscitate him.

"We understand the man had been drinking in the City earlier however we are awaiting the results of toxicology tests before this is confirmed.

"Two things that are confirmed however is that this latest death is the seventh on Hamilton City streets this year and it is also the seventh pedestrian fatality in our District."

With sizeable numbers of revellers expected in Hamilton before and after this evening's Rugby World Cup match between Wales and Fiji, Police are urging fans to drink responsibly.

"After the last Sunday match fans were in good form, enjoying drinks but also having a meal, the vibe was very positive and we would like people to continue this theme.

"We would also ask that patrons act responsibly in terms of arranging how to get home, think about saving that last $20 for a taxi fare instead of another round of drinks or consider taking public transport."

Mr Tooman said people weren't under any obligation to stay in bars till closing time, they can go home earlier while still maintaining their situational awareness.

"If we drink responsibly and make good decisions including how to get home safely we'll all be around to reflect on a successful World Cup campaign over the forthcoming summer."