Five children have been seriously injured in a crash overnight in Matamata, Waikato.
Police are investigating after a car was found in a ditch off Morrinsville-Walton Road about 11.55pm last night.
Of the five children, aged 10 to 13, four remain in ICU in critical condition and one is in a stable condition.
All five were taken to Waikato Hospital - four by ambulance and one by helicopter.
Waikato District Commander Superintendent Bruce Bird said while he understood there may be speculation about what occurred, investigations continue.
"At this early stage our focus is on understanding what led to this very serious crash," Bird said.
"While we understand there may be speculation about what occurred, it's important police have the opportunity to investigate the circumstances, and the families impacted are given the space to support their children."
The crash site, while initially closed to traffic, is now open.
https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/458714/five-children-seriously-injured-in-crash