A three-year-old child who has been in hospital since Tuesday with serious head injuries has died.
Cherishsiliala Tahuri-Wright from Porirua, known as Cherish, had been on life support since being taken to hospital. That life support was switched off last night and the child died around midnight.
The police investigation into how the child came by her injuries continues and a post mortem will be held tomorrow.
Police became aware of the child's injuries when they were called to a house in Ahuru Street, Marton around 12.15 on Tuesday afternoon (17 February). The girl lives in the Wellington area but had been staying at the Marton address for a few weeks with her grandparents.
She was initially treated at the house before being moved to a nearby hospital. From there she was airlifted to Palmerston North Hospital and then further transferred by air to Wellington Hospital.
A team of about 20 officers are working from Marton, Palmerston North and Wellington to establish how the child came by her injuries. Forensic experts ESR are also assisting police with an examination of the house in Marton.
Detective Senior Sergeant Craig Sheridan, who is heading the investigating said: "It is tragic news that this little girl has died. From an investigative point of view nothing has changed. The investigation from the outset has been thorough and has been about establishing how the child was injured and keeping an open mind. Until we have confirmation of how the child was injured that situation remains the same."
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 06 351 2546 or 027 234 8256.