Northland Driver Sentenced to 33 Months for Fatal High-Speed Hit-and-Run

John Le Noel has been sentenced to 33 months in prison for a high-speed hit-and-run that killed 19-year-old Matthew Howard in the Northland town of Ōkaihau.

By: AXL Media

Published: Apr 18, 2026, 3:37 AM EDT

Source: RNZ Pacific

Details of the Fatal Incident

The court heard that just after 10pm on January 28, 2025, Le Noel was driving through Settlers Way, the main street of Ōkaihau, at speeds reaching 117km/h in a 50km/h residential zone. CCTV footage captured his vehicle crossing the center line shortly before striking Howard. The impact was so severe it punched a hole through the car's windscreen and inflicted horrific injuries on the teenager, who died shortly after.

Following the collision, Le Noel:

Failed to stop to assist the victim.

Drove to Horeke to abandon the vehicle.

Remained in hiding until police identified him via CCTV and located him at his parents' home the next day.