A 29-year-old man has been charged following a fatal crash on the Tauranga Eastern Link Road near Papamoa earlier this year.

Uthai Phonphong was killed in the crash which occurred on January 17, 2021.

At the time of the crash, emergency services say two vehicles were involved in the crash, a 4X4 vehicle and a car.

The driver of the car died at the scene and the driver of the 4x4 vehicle was transported to hospital in a serious condition.

Following a four month investigation, police have charged a 29-year-old man with manslaughter.

The accused is also facing charges of conspiracy to deal a Class A drug and conspiracy to deal a Class B drug, says a police spokesperson.

He will be appearing in the Tauranga High Court on May 26.

"Police would like to thank everyone in the community who helped with information for this enquiry."