Teens thrown from car

Two teens have been thrown from a car after the driver lost control in an apparent race with another vehicle.

Police believe a car load of youths were racing on the outskirts of Waipukurau in Central Hawke's Bay about 11.15 last night.

A 19-year-old woman driving a dark blue BMW lost control and the car slid off the road, hit a culvert and rolled several times.

Two people were thrown from the vehicle as it rolled. There were four young people in the car, all from Hastings.

A 17-year-old young man was flown to hospital by rescue helicopter last night. He and a 16-year-old male are critically ill in Hawke's Bay Hospital. The driver is seriously injured and another young woman, aged 18, has moderate injuries.

Hawke's Bay sergeant Clint Adamson said it appeared speed and alcohol were contributing factors to the crash. There was also evidence to suggest the car may have been racing another vehicle, which did not stay at the scene.

''We're also keen to speak to anyone who knows anything about the second vehicle that was involved in this.  We believe the two cars may have been racing and we want to speak to the occupants of that vehicle urgently,'' Adamson said.

Anyone who saw the BMW on Racecourse Rd last night or saw two cars racing in the area should contact Waipukurau Police on 06 8589140.  Alternatively, information can be left anonymously on Crimestoppers 0800 555 111.

- © Fairfax NZ News