Six injured in Tauranga crash

Six people have been injured in a crash on Welcome Bay Road in Tauranga. Photo: Andrew Warner / Bay of Plenty Times

A speeding vehicle has crashed in rural Tauranga, bringing down power lines, in an incident police say could have been fuelled by alcohol

Emergency services were called to the scene at Welcome Bay Rd, near Waitao Rd, just after 7pm yesterday.

Senior Sergeant Chris Summerville said the crash happened on a straight section of road, governed by a 60 km/h limit.

"Early scene examinations and witness statements indicate that two vehicles were travelling at speed in an easterly direction toward Te Puke," Mr Summerville said.

"One of the vehicles has left the road and collided with power lines causing numerous poles to be brought down."

Six occupants from that vehicle were treated for minor injuries at Tauranga Hospital. The second vehicle drove off.

Mr Summerville said investigators had completed their initial scene investigation. Speed and alcohol were believed to have played a part.

Diversions were put in place while the power lines were repaired.

Police have appealed for witnesses to come forward. Anyone with information can call the Tauranga station on 07 577 4300.