But soon after 10pm, Butler was driving a Mitsubishi, and was on his learner’s licence. The Mitsubishi slowed briefly, and security staff identified themselves, before Butler took off at speed. Police hypothesised that, after actively fleeing from forestry security immediately beforehand, Butler believed the oncoming vehicle was another security patrol. “Learner drivers lack the training, experience and judgement that develops over time, particularly when confronted with unexpected or high-stress situations,” Coroner Telford said. “In these circumstances, judgment can rapidly deteriorate, leading to poor decision-making and an inability to accurately assess road conditions, other road users or safe speeds,” Coroner Telford said.

Source: New Zealand Herald February 15, 2026 19:02 UTC