Two dead in fiery late-night crash near Whangārei

Two people have died in a single-car crash on Otaika Valley Road, near Whangārei overnight.

Police said the vehicle involved went down a bank shortly after midnight "before hitting a tree and setting alight".

"Sadly, on emergency services arriving at the scene both occupants have been located deceased," a police spokesperson said.

A section of State Highway 15, between Otaika and Maungatapere, has been closed overnight and this closure remains in place this morning as traffic is being detoured via State Highways 1 and 14.

"We continue to advise motorists travelling through this area to expect delays and to allow additional time to reach their destination safely."

The serious crash unit will continue its scene examination this morning.