One person has died and another was injured after a serious crash involving a truck and a car on State Highway 3 between Māhoenui and Awakino.
The crash happened about 9.50am.
Police confirmed this afternoon that a person had died.
SH3 at Awakino remains closed.
There is no viable detour and NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) has advised motorists to avoid the area or delay travel until further notice.
Police said emergency services responded to the crash, which blocked the highway, before 10am.
“The crash was reported about 9.50am, between Papakauri and Awakau roads, and is understood to involve a car and truck,” police said.
“At least one person has been injured.
“Traffic management is being arranged, and motorists should expect delays of several hours while the scene is cleared.”
A spokesperson said Hato Hone St John was notified at 9.43am.
“One first response unit, one operations manager and one ambulance attended.”
The spokesperson said one patient in a minor condition was treated at the scene.
In a statement, NZTA advised road users to take extra care.
“Emergency services are en route,” NZTA said.
“There is no viable detour. Please avoid the area and delay travel until further notice.”
SH3 through Awakino Gorge was subject to a fortnight of maintenance work in December for patch repairs, slip clearance work and guardrail and signage repairs.
Maryana Garcia is a Hamilton-based reporter covering breaking news in Waikato. She previously wrote for the Rotorua Daily Post and Bay of Plenty Times.
The boy’s brother and a friend also suffered serious and minor injuries.