Police Beat: Three accidents in three hours

Waikato Police want motorists and pedestrians to maintain awareness after three serious crashes in three hours left one person dead, one child seriously injured and four people requiring medical attention.

With the festive season rapidly approaching, police are urging the public to be mindful of the risks associated around roads and vehicles and ask that they strive to maintain their situational awareness.

"One moment's lack of attention can lead to tragic consequences.

"What we're urging people to do is to make the right decisions about keeping not only themselves safe but their friends as well," a police spokesperson said.