Two people have died following a car crash in Wheki Valley, near Whangarei.
Police say they were alerted to the crash on State Highway 14 between Otuhi Road and Whatitiri Road at around 9:40am on Sunday.
Three other people were also critically to moderately injured in the two-car crash.
"The road remains closed and motorists are asked to avoid the area and expect delays," police say.
"An investigation into the circumstances is ongoing."