Three people have died after four motorbikes and a car crashed on State Highway 1 in the central North Island this morning. 

The crash happened near Utiku, south of Taihape, just after 8.10am. 

“Our crews assessed and treated two patients who were airlifted to Wellington hospital in a critical condition,” a St John spokeswoman said. 

St John sent three helicopters, two ambulances and three rapid response units to the scene. 

Three fire crews freed the driver of the car who was trapped,a Fire and Emergency spokeswoman said. 

Police confirmed just after midday that three people had died and that two others were taken to Wellington Hospital with critical injuries. 

SH1 Utiku is closed between Mangaweka and Taihape. 

Motorists are being warned to expect “significant” delays, with detours having been put in place. 

“The road is expected to be closed for several more hours,” police said. 

Serious crash investigators are also at the scene. 

“Further information will be released when police are in a position to do so.” 

Second motorbike crash at Tihoi, Bay of Plenty 

Emergency services are also responding to a crash involving a motorcycle on Western Bay Rd/State Highway 32 near the intersection with Waihaha Rd in the Bay of Plenty. 

Police say the crash was reported just before 10.30am. 

“Initial indications are that one person has been seriously injured,” police said. 

“Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays. Detours are in place.”