Pakes said the truck was unable to be towed due to significant damage to its front.
The driver of the truck had been taken to Tauranga Hospital but it was not yet clear how seriously they had been hurt. The person killed had been driving the car.
Pakes said officers were still trying to locate and notify next of kin.
Diversions remained in place and motorists were asked to take alternative routes where possible.
The Serious Crash Unit was investigating.
The NZ Transport Agency said State Highway 36 between Tauranga to Rotorua was closed between Pyes Pa Rd roundabout and Hamurana Rd, Ngongotaha.
