Fatal crash in Te Puna
Updated 3.44pm:
State Highway 2 has been reopened after a fatal accident at 12.15pm today.
The accident happened near Te Mete Rd.
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Updated 3.09pm:
Tauranga Police and other emergency services were called to a two-car crash on State Highway 2 near Te Mete Road, approximately 6 kilometres north-west of Tauranga, between Bethlehem and Te Puna.
A Tauranga St John's spokesperson said a 55-year-old man had been killed in the accident. He was the sole occupant of the vehicle.
From the other car involved, which was carrying four people, two girls were taken to hospital.
The girls were travelling with family, but at this stage it is unclear if the other occupants of the car are their parents.
A 15-year-old and a 7-year old had suffered minor to moderate injuries.
Both girls are from Whakatane.
The crash occurred at about 12.15pm today.
Our reporter was at the scene.
She said a red sedan has crashed.
The car had its hazard lights on and bits of the car lay scattered on the road.
State Highway 2 is closed and clearly sign-posted diversions are in place.
Police estimates the road will reopen soon.
Other details of the deceased will be released until the next of kin have been advised.
