Person killed in Desert Road crash

A person has been killed in a two-car smash on the Desert Road this afternoon.

The crash at about 2.40pm has closed the Desert Road and diversions are in place at Waiouru and Rangipo.

The crash occurred on State Highway One just north of Waiouru.

Four people have been injured, one of whom is in a serious condition. Police have confirmed that a fifth person has died at the scene.

Two rescue helicopters have been deployed to transport the injured people.

Police said the cause of the crash is unknown at this stage and the specialist crash units are at the incident to carry out a scene examination.

The accident follows another fatal accident this morning near Wellsford where an elderly pedestrian was killed. A child has also been hit by a car near Levin today and is reportedly in critical condition.