A man has died following a single vehicle crash in Balickera in the early hours of Friday morning in what is the state's first fatal crash of the June long weekend.
The man, who has yet to be formally identified but is believed to be aged 26, died after the vehicle he was driving left Italia Road and crashed into trees.
Emergency services were called to Italia Road off the Pacific Highway, about 13km north of Raymond Terrace, on reports of a crash just before 5.30am on June 11.
Police said occupants of a house near where the man was found located a vehicle that had left the road and crashed into trees.
"The male driver was treated at the scene but died a short time later," police said.
"A crime scene has been established, which will be examined by specialist forensic police."
Officers from Port-Stephens Hunter Police District have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the crash.
A report will be prepared for the information of the Coroner.
Police are urging motorists to be patient this June long weekend, with an expected increase in the number of people taking to the roads and more than usual towing caravans.
Double demerits came into force at midnight on Friday and will continue until 11.59pm on Monday, as part of the usual public holiday crackdown.
During the long weekend double demerit penalties will be in force for speeding, seat belt, motorcycle helmet and mobile phone offences.
Drivers caught using their phones during a double demerit period will be hit with a $349 fine ($464 in a school zone) and 10 demerits.
