Pregnant woman killed in crash

Police have confirmed that a pregnant woman was one of two drivers killed in a crash in the early hours of yesterday morning at Kaitoke near Whanganui.

She was Emily Hurley, 20, of Whanganui. She was the mother a 2-year-old child.

The male driver of the southbound vehicle involved, who also died, was Albert Noel Burns, 47, also of Whanganui.

Police said it was too early to determine exactly what may have caused the crash and until that investigation was complete police would not be speculating on any aspect.

The deaths have been referred to the coroner.

Today friends and family of Ms Hurley have posted tribute messages on Facebook.

Lockie Coe wrote that she was a "beautiful young lady", while Kelsey N Sam said Ms Hurley was a "Beautiful darling girl".

Taylor Rhodes said: "Taken away too early beautiful cousin..."

"I can't believe you were taken so soon. Gone too young still can't believe it is real," Judy Rhodes wrote on her own Facebook page.

Logan James Davidson this afternoon wrote: "R.I.P Emily you will be sadly missed always in aw hearts you left us to Yung."

Danielle Steedman also wrote a tribute for Ms Hurley.

"Rest easy you beautiful mummy you loved your boys so much xxxx..."

Taylor Rhodes wrote: "You were so beautiful inside and out, it's scary how things can just change in seconds and even minutes. And to the people. Kory will miss you heaps. rest easy Emily and Baby Jake xxx..."

And Katie Park also shared her grief on Facebook, saying Ms Hurley was an "amazing friend" and a shoulder to cry on when needed.

She said she was going to miss her "bubbly face" and was lost for words.

Meanwhile, Ashleigh Nicholson said: "Rest peacefully babe, thinking of you lots xo..."