An 18-year-old man will appear in the Christchurch District Court today in relation to the death of Zara Mitchell.

Zara died when the car she was in hit a tree before crashing into the side of a house in Rangiora on Sunday.

Police said before the crash they were called to Fernside following reports of illegal street racing.

The 18-year-old driver will appear in court charged with dangerous driving causing death, and failing to stop for police.

He’s also facing a charge of ‘driving unaccompanied on a learner’s licence.’

The car he was driving was pink stickered and should not have been on the road.

A Give A little page has been set for Zara’s family to cover funeral expenses.

Her cousin Tenica Taylor, who set up the page said: “Zara was so kind, considerate and had a beautiful and sweet personality.

“We are all going to miss her more than words could explain.”

On Sunday afternoon, a close friend of Zara said “she was such a beautiful soul and was just starting to get her life back on track.

“She had a heart of gold, and a laughter that could make you wet yourself over and over.

“She got dealt her share of cards, but the way she dealt with it was what I loved the most!”

“People just need to keep their words and opinions to themselves until we all know the true story. My kids adored her and appreciated every precious time spent with Zara. She was a great friend of mine.

The friend said two weeks ago Zara was talking about going back to Hagley College to start her studies again.