Learner driver faces sentencing after fatal collision with Christchurch cyclist

Tyson Delaney Stechman, 21, is due to be sentenced in the Christchurch District Court later this month for dangerous driving causing death and failing to stop to ascertain injury. Stechman pleaded guilty to these charges in July. The charges relate to a fatal collision on the evening of February 22 involving 60-year-old Ian Huntsman.

At approximately 5.30pm, Stechman was driving a 2002 Holden Commodore with a passenger down Evans Pass Rd towards Sumner. At the same time, Huntsman was descending the road on a bicycle equipped with GPS tracking. Huntsman was wearing a helmet and a highly visible bright orange top.

Stechman, who held a learner driver licence at the time, sounded his horn before overtaking Huntsman in a 50km/h zone. The court summary states Stechman drove at an excessive speed of between 79km/h and 96km/h, making contact with the bicycle. This caused Huntsman to lose control and be thrown onto the roadway.

After the collision, Stechman reached speeds between 96km/h and 112km/h while still in the 50km/h zone. He discussed the incident with his passenger but did not stop to help Huntsman or notify emergency services. Huntsman was found unconscious by members of the public and died on March 4, 2026, after life support was withdrawn.

Where reports differ

• One report notes Stechman's age was 21 at the time of sentencing, while others state he was 20 at the time of the incident

Compiled from reports by The Press, NZ Herald and Stuff.