One dead after van and truck collide

One person is dead after a van and truck collided on State Highway 5 in the Mamaku Ranges 20km north west of Rotorua today.

The 6am crash happened near Fitzgerald Glade, police northern communications Inspector William Taylor said.

SH5 through the Mamaku Ranges was closed and police advised motorists to find an alternative route between Rotorua and Tauranga.

Police said roads in the region were icy and motorists should take care in driving to the conditions.

- NZPA