Two people are facing manslaughter charges following two 2023 fatal crashes in the Bay of Plenty.

Over the last nine months, investigations into the two separate fatal crashes resulted in the arrests of two men who are due to reappear before the High Court, says Bay of Plenty Road Policing Manager Inspector Logan Marsh.

A 27-year-old man is due to reappear in the High Court at Tauranga on July 3 in relation to a two-vehicle crash on Hewletts Road, Mount Maunganui, on Wednesday, December 27, 2023. 

A 35-year-old man is due to reappear in the High Court at Rotorua in 2026 in relation to a two-vehicle crash on State Highway 5, Tapapa, on Wednesday, September 27, 2023.

Both men are facing charges of manslaughter, and driving while under the influence of listed drugs causing injury.

The 27-year-old man also faces charges of dangerous driving causing injury.

"While these cases are before the courts, I want to acknowledge the victims’ families during this time, as well as the work of our staff in investigating these crashes," says Inspector Marsh.

"These crashes are key examples of why police target the four main behaviours that contribute to crashes which all too often result in fatal and serious injuries – restraints, impairment, distractions, and speed."