Police report that three people have died following a serious crash in Hatepe, south of Taupo.

State Highway 1 was closed at Hatepe, south of Taupo, early Saturday morning following the crash.

The crash between a truck and a van occurred about 4.15am.

One further person was taken to Taupo Hospital with non-life threatening injuries.

The road is now partially open and motorists can expect some delays.

At the scene? Email [email protected]