Fatal crash SH23 at Whatawhata – name of victim
Media Release: NZ Police, 10 June 2016
The name of the person who died in a crash in Waikato has been named as 49-year-old Darren Merito of Raglan.
Police continue to investigate the cause of the incident on SH23 at Whatawhata.
Our thoughts are with the family of the deceased at this distressing time.
Police can advise that the road, SH23 has now been reopened.
Police will not be commenting on the circumstances of the crash while it is under investigation.
Media Release: NZ Police, 9 June 2016 – 5:16pm
The crash involved a truck and a car.
Diversions are currently in place at State highway 23 and Te Pahu Road for west bound traffic, and State Highway 23 and Waitetuna Road for east bound traffic.
Police appreciate the patience of motorists whilst emergency services attend the scene.
Police advise that an alternative route to consider for traffic moving from the Raglan direction towards Hamilton should consider traversing Ohautira road, via Waingaro and on to Ngaruawahia.
Similarly, westbound traffic heading to Raglan would be advised to consider the same route through Waingaro as an alternative to the Waitetuna Valley Road.
The road is likely to remain closed until at least 7.00pm, potentially longer while police clear the accident scene and examine the cause of the crash.
Police advise that the driver of one vehicle has been killed while the driver of the second vehicle has been transported to Waikato Hospital with moderate injuries.
It was bound to happen. There are quite a few temporary citizens on highway 23 as they take huge risks passing in dangerous places
Eileen makes reference to temporary citizens and huge passing risks in dangerous places but none of that is relevant in the case of this tragic accident.