One person has died and a road remains closed in the central North Island following a serious multi-vehicle crash.
The crash happened at around 11:45am on Monday on State Highway 5 in Tarawera, Police said, and initial indications were that three vehicles were involved.
The Serious Crash Unit was advised and NZTA closed SH5 between Taupō and Eskdale in Hawke's Bay as a result.
They said the road remains closed and contractors and the Serious Crash Unit are on-site.
NZTA asks drivers to delay their journey or use another route.
Police said two other people involved in the crash were flown to hospital with serious injuries.