One killed as cars crash head-on

The driver of this Toyota Corolla died in the accident. Photo / Martin Sykes

One man was killed and another was in a critical condition last night after their cars collided head-on on a bend south of Auckland.

Both had to be cut free of their vehicles after the crash on Awhitu Rd, about 3km north of Waiuku, 70km southwest of Auckland yesterday.

The 40-year-old driver of a white Toyota Corolla died at the scene and the 62-year-old driver of a red Honda Integra was taken to hospital.

The Honda driver was believed to have crossed the centre line while coming around a left-hand bend, colliding with the other vehicle.

The dead man is believed to have come from Manurewa.

The 62-year-old, who received head injuries and multiple fractures to his limbs, was taken by Westpac Rescue Helicopter to Middlemore Hospital.

Chief paramedic Barry Watkin said he was semi-conscious.

"It was a violent impact. This guy was lucky to be alive, really."

The officer in charge of the Waiuku police station, Sergeant Simon Palmer, said both vehicles had extensive frontal damage.

"They hit head-on, wrapped around one another and ended up in a ditch area, in the bank."

Police were yesterday still trying to determine the cause of the crash.

The road was blocked off for about four hours while emergency services cleared the way.