The victims of a double fatal motorcycle crash near Tokoroa were two men aged 41 and 59, police say.
The two motorcycles the men were riding collided with a tanker on State Highway 1 about 2.40pm.
The 41-year-old from Putaruru and the 59-year-old from Hastings both died at the scene, about 1km north of Puriri Rd.
The road was closed for several hours so that police could examing the crash site.
The highway reopened shortly after 9.15pm.
A police spokesperson said they will not be releasing the names of the men until their families had been told of their deaths.
Taupo Senior Sergeant Fane Troy said the Serious Crash Unit would continue to investigate the cause of the crash.
"The scene was complex and covered a 200 metre section of the highway."
He said police wanted to remind motorcyclists to be careful, ride to the conditions and know their limits.
"This was a tragedy for all involved and our thoughts are with the friends and family of those affected.
"Police would like to thank all motorists for their patience during this road closure."