Three dead after car crashes into Marlborough river

Police have recovered the bodies of three people who were unaccounted for following a crash in Marlborough overnight.

The crash at the intersection of State Highway 1 and Bush Road in Tuamarina was reported to police at 1.45am today.

Two people were able to escape from the car after it crashed into the Tuamarina River, but three people were unaccounted for.

The Police National Dive Squad was deployed and at around 12pm located the car submerged in the river.

Police said in a statement that "support is being provided to the families of the deceased, as well as to the two survivors who suffered moderate injuries in the crash".

State Highway 1 was closed for some time but is now open, although there may be brief closures again later.

Mayor Nadine Taylor said earlier today that her heart went out to everyone involved.

"It's an absolutely tragic event for whichever families and community it hits.

"It's going to be a heartbreaking day for some families somewhere when they receive this news, and it's life-changing news."

The two who escaped were transported to hospital, one with moderate injuries and one in serious condition.