Police are investigating a fatal crash that occurred north of Whangarei yesterday afternoon.

A woman died in the crash which occurred about 3.45pm on State Highway 1, near Puhipuhi Road, north of Whangarei.

Traffic diversions were put in place while emergency services attended the crash scene.

Police believe a southbound car crossed the centre line and hit two northbound cars.

The deceased woman, aged 68 years, was the driver of one of the northbound cars. Three other people were injured.

The 68-year-old female passenger in the deceased woman's car and a 55-year-old woman in the southbound car received moderate injuries.

The 64-year-old male driver of the southbound car received serious injuries and was flown to Auckland by helicopter.

Police will release the name of the deceased woman once next of kin have been notified.

Source: New Zealand Police.