Two people have been killed after a two-vehicle crash that shut down State Highway 14 in Northland this evening.
Emergency services arrived at the scene near the intersection of SH14 and Otuhi Rd in Wheki Valley, southwest of Whangārei, at 6pm, a spokesperson said.
The two people were found dead at the scene.
The road is expected to be closed for some time. Waka Kotahi is advising traffic to detour through Whatetiri Rd, SH15 Opouteke Rd, Murray Rd, and Tangowhine Valley Rd.
Police are urging motorists to avoid the area or delay travel and to expect significant delays.
At the opposite end of the country, one person is in a critical condition after a crash on SH1 in Clutha.
Emergency services were alerted to the accident near the intersection of SH1 and Black Bridge Rd in Ashley Downs about 5.40pm.
The crash involved two vehicles.
The road was closed this evening as emergency services attended the scene.
Police asked motorists to avoid the area and follow diversions. Inquiries into the crash are under way.
The group was nominated by Whangārei District Council's waste minimisation officer.