Three people have died following a crash involving a car and a tanker truck on State Highway 1, about 5km north of Waiouru last night.
The crash happened between Shawcroft Rd and Access Rd No17 shortly before midnight.
"All three occupants of the car died in the crash, while the driver of the tanker was treated for moderate injuries," said Whanganui Area Commander Inspector Neil Forlong.
A helicopter was brought in to assist emergency service personnel with a search of the area to ensure nobody else was involved.
Forlong said "the loss of three lives is heartbreaking".
"Our initial inquiries show the car has likely crossed the centre line just before the crash, but why that occurred is a focus of our investigation.
"There were initial fears a fourth person may have been travelling in the vehicle, but we have thankfully been able to rule that out," he said.
Forlong acknowledged the fast response of emergency crews, who he said were "faced with a tough scene".
"Crashes like this are devastating for the families involved and the community, and police will continue to support those affected by this tragedy."
A scene examination was completed by the serious crash unit and the road was expected to reopen this morning.
Inquiries into the cause of the crash were ongoing.
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