A deadly night on New Zealand roads has pushed the King’s Birthday weekend road toll to seven.

It has prompted a stark warning from police for motorists travelling home.

Five people died in three separate crashes, including a triple fatality at Waiōuru on June 1.

Superintendent Steve Greally, director of road policing, described the loss of life as “absolutely gutting”.

“One person died in a crash in Wairakei, one on Waiheke, and tragically, three people were killed in a crash in Waiōuru,” Greally said.

“We are thinking of their families today, while they deal with the awful reality that their lives will never be the same.”

The fatalities follow two earlier crashes this long weekend, bringing the provisional death toll to seven.

With many people preparing to head home after the holiday, police are urging drivers to take extra care.

“We say it all the time but we’re going to say it again – there are four main things that contribute to death or serious injury on the roads,” Greally said.

“Those are speeding, not using your seatbelt, driving distracted, or driving impaired, including by tiredness.”

He urged motorists to follow simple steps that could save lives.

“If you’re getting on the road today, please – buckle up, put your phone away, watch your speed, and if you are at all impaired by alcohol, drugs or tiredness, stop – don’t get behind the wheel.

“These things might be the difference between you getting home safely or not.”