Fatal car crash north of Tirau

Putaruru Police and other emergency services are currently attending the scene of a fatal car crash on State Highway One approximately five kilometres north of Tirau.

State Highway One is closed between the intersections of SH1 and State Highway 29 in the North, and SH1 and State Highway 27 in the South. Diversions are available via SH29 and SH27.

At this stage it appears that a southbound car has crossed the centre line, hitting a northbound truck. The sole male occupant and driver of the car died at the scene. The truck driver and passenger are uninjured.

It is expected that State Highway One will be closed for several hours, while crash investigators inspect the scene.

Drivers are asked to take alternative routes through the area and use the diversions in place.

There are no further details available at this time. It is unlikely that the deceased will be formally named by Police today.

The crash area is within the Bay of Plenty Police District.