The man killed in a three-car collision on State Highway 29 in the Lower Kaimai Range was 40-year-old Shayne Peter Waaka from Tauranga.
Two others who suffered moderate injuries were taken to Tauranga Hospital after the crash on State Highway 29 at 3.30pm on Friday.
Head of Western Bay of Plenty road policing Senior Sergeant Ian Campion earlier said the crash involved two cars heading towards Tauranga and one travelling in the other direction.
The serious crash unit were still investigating, he said.
In a written statement, police said they wished to extend their sympathies to Mr Waaka's family and friends at this tragic time.