Two people have died after a truck and car crashed in Waikato.

Police said the crash on State Highway 29 near Karāpiro was reported around 6am.

The crash happened just outside the farm of 30-year-old Tom Healeycrct, who heard “a number of sirens”.

By the time he saw the crash scene, he said emergency services had the situation “well under control”, and the highway had been closed.

Healey said it was clear the crash was major.

Seeing one of the vehicles being removed from the scene, he recalled thinking: “Oh Jesus”.

He said the area was “notorious” for crashes and was a “very dangerous stretch of road”.

Three fire crews had been called to the crash, arriving at 6.20am, Fire and Emergency northern shift manager Josh Pennefather said. 

Hato Hone St John was had also attended after being called at 5.58am, a spokesman for the ambulance service said. 

The Serious Crash Unit and other emergency services were working at the scene to understand the circumstances of the crash, police said.

The highway was closed for several hours between Hinuera and Piarere.

New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi reports the road is now open.

“SH29 is now open between the SH29 roundabout near the Hinuera quarry and Totman Road; however, a 50km/h speed limit remains in place.

“People are asked to drive with care around the area.”