One person is dead and two others injured after a car and a light van collided on State Highway 4 between Taumarunui and Te Kuiti this afternoon.
Detective Chris Chapman, Taumarunui CIB, said the male passenger in a northbound car died at the scene of the crash which happened at 2.57pm near Tapuwahine Road, about 28 km north of Taumarunui.
The male driver of the northbound car was flown by rescue helicopter to Waikato Hospital with life threatening injuries.
The driver of the southbound van was taken by ambulance to Waikato Hospital where he's being treated for moderate chest injuries.
Police say the name of the man who died will not be released until his next of kin is informed. Other details including ages of the victims are still being established.
Detective Chapman said the police serious crash unit is investigating the cause of the crash which happened on a winding stretch of road.
One lane has been reopened to traffic but motorists are urged to take care in the area.
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Released by:
Kaye Calder
Senior Media Adviser: District Liaison
Public Affairs: PNHQ
Mobile: 027 241 6305