At approximately 2.55pm there was a fatal collision between two vehicles travelling in opposite directions on SH5 just south of Rotorua.
A woman from one vehicle died at the scene and a baby from that vehicle has been taken to Rotorua Hospital. He is not believed to be injured at this stage. Two men from the second vehicle have been transported to Rotorua Hospital with moderate injuries.
An investigation into the cause of the crash is underway.
The Rotorua-bound lane re-opened at approximately 5.10pm and the Taupo-bound lane is expected to open shortly.
No further information is expected tonight.