Waikato police want to hear from any witnesses to a crash in Tirau on Saturday night.
The serious crash unit is investigating the accident on Prospect Ave near the intersection with Ensor Pl around 10pm.
Police say the driver "failed to negotiate a moderate left-hand bend" and hit a tree.
"The driver died at the scene and the only other occupant, also a man, was flown to Waikato Hospital in critical condition."
Police want to hear from anyone who saw the red 2001 Holden Commodore before the crash, or a late model white Honda SUV, which was seen leaving the crash site.
"It is thought to be fitted with black roof rack runners, dark tinted windows and a registration contained the letter 'E'," said Insp Brent Crowe.
"Anyone with information is urged to contact Tokoroa police via 105."
Elsewhere, a crash on Saturday on Piako Rd in Morrinsville has claimed a life. The person seriously hurt died later in hospital.
A person died after their vehicle went down a bank on State Highway 23 in Raglan just before 2am.
And a motorcyclist died after colliding with a bridge on State Highway 1 at Koromiko, Marlborough at 12:20am.
