Emergency services remain at the scene of fatal crash on Hamurana Rd, near Rotorua.
Police said a male driver travelling towards Ngongotaha collided with a tree about 5.30 this morning.
The road remains closed between Te Waerenga Rd and SH33 in both directions as the fire service removes the deceased from the scene. It is expected to open within 45-60 minutes.
Police said they were in the process of contacting next of kin before releasing further details of the deceased.
EARLIER: A person has died after the car they were in hit a tree early this morning on Hamurana Rd, near Rotorua.
Police and emergency services were called to the scene of the crash at 5.30am on Hamurana Rd.
The sole vehicle involved has left the road and hit a tree. At this stage one person has been confirmed dead.
Hamurana Rd between Te Waerenga Rd and SH33 is closed to traffic in both directions while the Serious Crash Unit investigates and the scene is cleared.
Motorists, especially large trucks that tend to use this road, are advised to take alternative routes.