SH1 reopens after fatal crash at Huntly

State Highway 1 at Huntly has reopened after a fatal car versus truck crash this morning.

The male driver of the car, the sole occupant, was killed in the collision outside the town's cemetery about 4.20am.

Inspector Cornell Kluessien of police northern communications said there were few details available about the dead man.

The driver of the truck was shaken but uninjured, he said.

Diversions were put in place shortly after the accident but the road reopened about 7am, Mr Kluessien said.

The Waikato serious crash unit has carried out a preliminary scene examination. It appears the southbound Mitsubishi car crossed the centre line into the path of a northbound truck and trailer unit, said Waikato road policing manager, Inspector Leo Tooman.

It was too early to say what if any part fatigue or alcohol played in the crash but he urged people to think ahead when driving over the holiday season.

"Here we have the situation where instead of planning for festive celebrations one man's family is having to make plans for a funeral.

"Drivers need to watch their speed, ensure they're well rested, lay off the booze and ensure they're belted in so we can all make the most of the holiday season."

- NZPA