A couple killed in a car crash near Queenstown last Thursday were expecting a child.

Mother-to-be Simran Shiuagani Mala, 25, and her partner Jamie William Pitman, 35, were from Frankton, Queenstown, police said yesterday.

Tribute social media posts have expressed their grief at the loss of both of them, including references to the tragic loss of Mala’s unborn baby.

One mentioned that Mala was six months pregnant while another gave their condolences to both whānau and “our unborn pēpi”.

“Sending aroha and condolences … my heart aches right now … you both will be sadly missed but not forgotten,” said another post.

Simran Shiuagani and Jamie William Pitman were killed in the crash on June 27. Photo / Supplied 

Pitman’s father also paid tribute online.

“Love you son, will miss our catchups over the phone, although they were brief, they were conversations with purpose and meaning, which I will value for a lifetime,” he said.

“RIP son, love you and will miss you, love dad.”

The fatal crash occurred on Malaghans Rd at Dalefield, between Queenstown and Arrowtown. Photo / NZ Herald

The crash happened just before 10pm on Malaghans Rd at Dalefield, between Queenstown and Arrowtown.

Police, fire and ambulance attended the incident.

Hato Hone St John sent three ambulances and one helicopter to the scene.

“Our crews assessed and treated one patient in a moderate condition and four patients in a minor condition; all were transported to Lakes District Hospital by road,” a spokesperson said.

The cause of the crash is under investigation.

Police said two vehicles were involved, with one being a shuttle bus for Millbrook Resort.

Millbrook refused to comment when approached by the Herald today.

Five other people were injured and transported to Lakes District Hospital, where one was treated for moderate injuries and four for minor injuries.

According to the Ministry of Transport, 139 people had been killed in 121 crashes this year, as of yesterday.

At the same time last year, 168 people had died in 148 crashes.