The families of all of the students involved in a fatal road crash near Turangi this morning have now been notified of the tragedy.
The three who were killed in the crash can now be named as Daniela Rosanna Lekhno, Roch (pronounced Rock) Jauberty, and Austin Brashears. All three were US nationals. Police are still to confirm their ages.
All of the students in the people mover that crashed were from Boston University on an exchange programme to Auckland. The only exception is the 21-year-old woman who remains in a critical condition in hospital. She is from Boston University but was not on the Auckland exchange.
Two women aged 20 and 21 remain in Rotorua Hospital in a stable condition. A 21-year-old woman and a 21-year-old man were treated in Taupo Hospital and later discharged.
The group in the other vehicle are all Boston University students except for one man who is from another American university visiting a friend. They are traumatised by events today and don't wish to speak to media but are being well supported by Police, Victim Support and coordinators for the exchange programme. Police are trying to identify someone who is willing to speak to the media on behalf of the students but a spokesperson may not be available today.
The students are all studying various academic subjects, and as part of the programme spend two semesters overseas.
Road Policing Manager, Insp Kevin Taylor, said: "We fully appreciate the added pressure on families when their children are hurt or killed overseas. We have made it a priority today to contact the families as quickly as possible so that they don't hear the news through the grapevine, and to reassure other families who have children studying overseas. We will continue to ensure the families to receive the necessary support."
The family of the woman in a critical condition have made a specific request not to be contacted and have asked that her name not be published.
Media enquiries should be referred to Communications Manager Kim Perks on 027 234 8256.