TRIBUTES HAVE BEEN paid to an Irishman who was killed in a road traffic collision in New Zealand on Christmas day.

Tim O’Dwyer (20) from Ennistymon, and formerly Ballyvraneen and Lahinch in Clare, died in a single vehicle collision in New Zealand. 

Local police reported that emergency services attended the scene of a collision in Ashburton at approximately 12.45am (New Zealand time) on Christmas morning.

Police confirmed that the sole occupant of the car had died on Methven Highway in the suburb of Allenton.

O’Dwyer was the fifth motorist to die on New Zealand roads over the festive period.

He had emigrated with a friend from Miltown Malbay in September and had been based in Te Ika-a-Māui / north island of New Zealand before moving to Te Waipounamu / south island.

O’Dwyer was reportedly employed by a Liscannor native in New Zealand and was working alongside 20 others from north Clare.

Locals said his death has brought “unimaginable sadness” to his local community and his close and extended families, who are now asking for privacy at this time.

Members of the O’Dwyer family have thanked the public for their support in recent days and have also appealed for privacy.

Tim’s family said that while they were “dealing with the unthinkable and devastating heartbreak of Tim’s loss, they wish to thank their family, friends and neighbours for the incredible outpouring of kindness and support at this incredibly difficult time”.

Senator Martin Conway (FG) who knew the family said: “I am heartbroken for the O’Dwyer family on the death of Tim, the whole community are behind them to support in any way they can. It has put a huge dampener on the whole community. I would appeal to people to respect the family’s appeal for privacy.”

The Department of Foreign Affairs said it is aware of the case and that it is ready to provide consular assistance to the family if requested.

Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced.

Hundreds of parishioners shared their support and sympathies online, with one saying: “RIP Tim, a lovely lad, always a wave and a smile. Sincere condolences.”