Police remain at the scene of a serious crash on State Highway 2 in Pikowai near Whakatane.
Emergency services were notified around 1:50pm that a car and truck had collided.
It has now been confirmed that four seperate vehicles were involved in the crash.
A total of three people have died at the scene.
The Serious Crash Unit is in attendance and the road is likely to be closed for a number of hours.
Police are asking that anyone who witnessed the crash please contact Whakatane Police on (07) 308 5255.
In particular we would like to speak to a paraglider who was above the scene of the crash when it occured.
Police would like to thank the public in advance for their patience and assistance.