New Zealand’s cycling and sporting high performance governing bodies have commissioned an independent inquiry following the death of Olivia Podmore.

Both High Performance Sport New Zealand (HPSNZ) and Cycling New Zealand said the inquiry would look at the adequacy of changes made after a 2018 report.

That report said HPSNZ had failed to act on bullying and inappropriate behaviour claims.

“Our priority is to ensure we understand what has happened and what more can be done,” said HPSNZ chief executive Raelene Castle.

“Olivia’s death has focussed our attention once more on the complex issues surrounding athlete welfare and wellbeing, issues that the system has grappled with across a number of years,” she added.

Cycling NZ chairman Phil Holden said: “We have been listening carefully to the voices of athletes who have spoken out or made contact with us directly.

“The board are very clear they want to make sure that those perspectives are built into this inquiry right from the start.”

If you are struggling with mental health call the Samaritans on 116 123, Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636.