A woman is dead, a man is seriously injured and four children have been taken to hospital following a fatal crash just outside of Taupo late last night.
The crash happened around 11:45pm. Only one vehicle was involved and police at the scene believe it probably rolled on the corner of Poihipi and Tukairangi Rds - inland from Acacia Bay.
The male driver has been taken by rescue helicopter to hospital.
The female front seat passenger died at the scene.
Four children - all aged under 5 - were thrown from the vehicle and police had to search for them.
Their injuries aren't thought to be life threatening at this stage but they have been taken to hospital.
Police estimate the road will be re-opened around 4am, a detour is currently in place.
Taupo Police are dealing with the crash and have called Rotorua Police's Serious Crash Unit.
Issued by the Police Northern Communication Centre at 2am 19.12.04 by Andi Devlin - Media Section