15 Jan 2026

Two killed as cars collide on Bay of Plenty highway

10:05 am on 15 January 2026
The NZ Transport Agency said State Highway 30 is expected to remain closed for quite some time.

The NZ Transport Agency said State Highway 30 is expected to remain closed for quite some time. Photo: NZTA

Two people are dead after two cars collided on a Bay of Plenty highway.

Road closures are in place after two cars collided on State Highway 30 in Tikitere, a suburb in Rotorua, about 4.20am on Thursday.

Police said two people were found dead at the scene, and a third person received moderate injuries.

Diversions are in place at the intersections of State Highway 30/State Highway 33 and State Highway 30/Matahi Road.

The NZ Transport Agency said State Highway 30 is expected to remain closed for quite some time.