Two Hastings teens critical after crash

The four occupants of the BMW were taken by helicopter and ambulance to Hawkes Bay Hospital after their car left Racecourse Road. Photo / Warren Buckland

Two young males are critically injured in Hawke's Bay Hospital following a crash last night in Waipukurau.

Police believe two cars may have been racing.

The crash occurred on Racecourse Rd on the outskirts of the town around 11.15pm.

Police say the 19-year-old female driver of a dark blue BMW lost control of the car and it slid off the road, hit a culvert and rolled several times down the road. As the car rolled, two of the occupants were thrown from the car. There were four young people in the car, all from Hastings.

Sergeant Clint Adamson of Hawkes Bay Police said it appeared speed and alcohol were contributing factors to the crash.

There was also evidence to suggest the car may have been racing another vehicle, which did not stay at the scene.

Two male passengers aged 16 and 17 are in critical condition in hospital, the female driver has serious injuries and an 18-year-old female passenger has moderate injuries. The 17-year-old male was flown to hospital by rescue helicopter.

Police are appealing for sightings of the dark blue BMW on Racecourse Rd during the evening.

"We're also keen to speak to anyone who knows anything about the second vehicle that was involved in this. We believe the two cars may have been racing and we want to speak to the occupants of that vehicle urgently," Mr Adamson said.

Anyone who saw the BMW on Racecourse Rd last night or saw two cars racing in the area should contact Waipukurau Police on 06 8589140. Alternatively, information can be left anonymously on Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.