Four people are dead and a child is seriously injured following a crash between a car and a logging truck on SH 1 at Uretiti which is just north of Waipu.
According to a Police statement, "initial indications are that the car was making a u-turn when it hit the oncoming truck. Police are still at the scene investigating the crash and are in the process of identifying the deceased."
Road closures are expected to be in place for several hours and a number of diversions have been set up for traffic while Police are on the scene.
According to the statement, Northland Road Policing Manager Inspector Murray Hodson says this is a very tragic incident, which appears to be caused by a momentary error of judgement.“Our hearts go out to the families of the victims especially at this time of year when families are getting together to celebrate Christmas.”
Police say the crash is a reminder for all drivers to stay focused and concentrate on their driving.
Mr Hodson says there are already reports of drivers speeding to get to their destinations after being delayed by the crash.
“Please slow down. We want you to get to your destination safely and police do not want to attend another crash like this one. We also don’t want to tell other families that their loved ones have died on the road this Christmas.”