"Fatal Northland crashes - UPDATE"

Police in Northland continue to investigate two fatal crashes in the district overnight.

The first, in Omanaia west of Kaikohe, happened just before 10pm last night where a car had been returning home and attempted to cross a flooded creek during a heavy down pour of rain during the evening.

One male remained trapped in the car and died at the scene, and a second male in the vehicle has managed to get out of the car and raise the alarm.

In the second crash, a man died at the scene after a vehicle he was a passenger in left State Highway One, hitting a tree, near Towai just after midnight.

The male driver was transported to Kawakawa Hospital in a serious condition.

Kaumatua have blessed the sites of both crashes, and the Serious Crash Unit continues to investigate the cause of each incident.

Northland Duty Inspector Riki Whiu says: “Our condolences and thoughts go out to the local families of those that have died in these tragic incidents.

Any death on our roads is a tragedy, and it's especially difficult for all of our staff to have two fatal crashes in the space of one night.

Police wish to remind those travelling on our roads, in particular in such terrible driving conditions, to drive to the conditions and look after each other."

Both matters have been referred to the coroner

Next-of-kin are being notified.

ENDS

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