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• A homicide investigation is underway after a car hit a power pole, killing a 30-year-old woman in Hamilton.
• Detective Inspector Matt Cranshaw said inquiries are ongoing to determine the circumstances.
• The intersection is closed, with diversions in place; police seek information from the public.

A homicide investigation has been launched after a car crashed into a power pole in Melville, Hamilton, this morning, resulting in the death of a 30-year-old woman.

Waikato field crime manager Detective Inspector Matt Cranshaw said the woman died after a vehicle drove into the power pole she was standing next to.

The crash happened on the corner of Ōhaupō Rd and Kahikitea Drive.

“It was initially reported that two vehicles were involved, however, this is not the case.”

Cranshaw said inquiries were being conducted to “ascertain the circumstances surrounding these events”.

“Investigators and specialists remain at this location with diversions in place.

Emergency services are at the scene of a serious motor vehicle crash in Melville, Hamilton, near Waikato Hospital. Photo / Danielle Zollickhofer

“The road is expected to be closed for some time.”

Cranshaw said police would like to speak to anyone with information regarding the incident.

Emergency services attended the scene of the crash after 9.30am.

Police earlier said the road would be blocked “for some time”.

“Indications are there are serious injuries.”

A Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesperson said crews were in attendance at a motor vehicle accident.

“We are assisting police and St John.”

Hato Hone St John said one ambulance and manager responded to the incident.

A homicide investigation has been launched after the death of a 30-year-old woman in Hamilton. The woman died after a vehicle drove into the power pole she was standing next to. Photo / Danielle Zollickhofer

“One patient was assessed at the scene and was transported to Waikato Hospital in a critical condition.

“We don’t have any further information.”

According to the New Zealand Transport Agency journey planner, the intersection of State Highway 1C and SH3 is closed in all four directions, because of “a serious crash”.

NZTA asked people to delay their journey, avoid the area or expect diversions and long delays on surrounding local roads.

The detour is via Normandy Ave to access alternative local roads. Use Pembroke St for access to and from Waikato Hospital.

Maryana Garcia is a Hamilton-based reporter covering breaking news in Waikato. She previously wrote for the Rotorua Daily Post and Bay of Plenty Times.