Whanganui Area Commander Inspector Neil Forlong said the loss of three lives was heartbreaking.
“Our initial inquiries show the car has likely crossed the centre line just before the crash, but why that occurred is a focus of our investigation.”
A helicopter was sent to help search the area as there were initial fears that a fourth person had been in the vehicle, but that had been ruled out.
Forlong acknowledged the fast response from emergency crews “who faced a tough scene”.
“Crashes like this are devastating for the families involved, and the community and police will continue to support those affected by this tragedy.”
The Serious Crash Unit has completed a scene examination and the road has now reopened.
A Fire and Emergency spokesman confirmed the service had attended the crash but referred queries to police.
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