Two people dead, one seriously injured in two-car crash on SH5, Rangitaiki

Where the crash occurred on SH5 in Rangitaiki, a rural Taupo District community.
Where the crash occurred on SH5 in Rangitaiki, a rural Taupo District community. Photo credit: Google Maps

Two people are dead following a two-car crash on SH5 in the rural Taupō District community of Rangitaiki.

A third passenger is understood to be seriously injured, a police spokesperson confirmed.

Police were notified of the crash at 1:25pm on Monday. The Serious Crash Unit remains at the scene. 

Diversions are in place and the road is expected to remain closed for some time. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect significant delays.

As of 4:45pm, one lane is re-opened on SH5. Traffic management remains in place while police continue to work at the scene of the fatal crash.

"Anyone who can delay travel should do so until the road has fully reopened," a police spokesperson said.

Earlier on Monday, another person died following a crash in the Coromandel Peninsula.

Police were called to the accident on Kopu-Hikuai Road in Kopu at around 9:10am.

Diversions are in place through Paeroa and Whangamata.