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.
