State Highway 1 south fo Whangarei remains closed, after two people died in a serious crash.
The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) said the highway remains closed near the intersection with Totara Rd in Oakleigh.
NZTA recommends drivers use the detour via SH12.
Three others have been transported to hospital with moderate to serious injuries, police said in a statement.
"The Serious Crash Unit will be investigating and the road will be closed for several hours."
NZTA reported earlier that both lanes near the intersection with Totara Rd had been blocked.
Fire and Emergency personnel were understood to be working to free several trapped occupants.
Two cars crashed at around 3.50pm Saturday afternoon and both lanes of the road are blocked, police confirmed in a statement.
"The road has been closed near Totara Rd and there are diversions in place at Salmon and Springfield Rds for cars and other small vehicles; however it is not suitable for heavy vehicles or campervans," police said.
For that reason motorists are asked to avoid the area.
Newshub.
