Two people have died in a crash in Otaika, near Whangārei overnight.
A single vehicle crash was reported on Otaika Valley Road, State Highway 15, at 12.20am.
The vehicle involved has gone down a bank before hitting a tree and setting alight.
Sadly, on emergency services arriving at the scene both occupants have been located deceased.
A section of State Highway 15, between Otaika and Maungatapere, has been closed overnight and this closure remains in place this morning.
Traffic is being detoured via State Highways 1 and 14.
The Serious Crash Unit has been advised of the crash and a scene examination will continue this morning.
‘We continue to advise motorists travelling through this area to expect delays and to allow additional time to reach their destination safely,’ said police in a statement.