An officer who struck and killed a Northland teenager with a car was not driving in a reasonable or prudent manner, the Independent Police Conduct Authority has found.
Rawiri Wilson, 16, was hit by the police car as he walked along State Highway 1, near Ohaeawai, about midnight on 25 July 2009.
Despite criticising Constable Jamie Anderson's driving, the IPCA has not made a recommendation as it says his actions were not unlawful.
The watchdog found Mr Anderson's headlights were on low beam and he had been texting while driving, which was not illegal at the time.
The authority says Rawiri Wilson and his cousin, who was seriously injured, were not exercising caution as they walked along an unlit section of the highway.
Rawiri Wilson's mother, Sharlene Wilson, says she has accepted an apology from Mr Anderson's family, but feels he has got off without punishment.
Mr Anderson continues to work for the police.
