The Hawke's Bay Sāmoan community is in deep shock after a fatal crash involving Pacific workers.
One man died and 10 horticulture workers were taken to hospital - some in critical condition - after their van collided with a truck on a notorious stretch of road between Napier and Taupō.
Covid-19 travel restrictions mean many RSE workers have been forced to stay in New Zealand, away from their families, for many months.
The Police say the workers were heading to Taupō for a short holiday.
Funeral director Tim Leiataualesa Niuapu Hutchins has told RNZ's Hamish Cardwell he knows the man who died.
He says the Sāmoan family and the whole Hawke's Bay community will be reeling.
