The quake struck about 35km northeast of Luganville in Vanuatu.

A car was also driven at partygoers and a number of vicious assaults reported.

70-100 people could be seen gathered in groups near the scene in Mt Albert.

Police said the accident near Ōtara has blocked multiple lanes.

Police believe they have found everyone from inside the vehicle, but divers will check.

Police were alerted to the incident at about 6.25pm this evening.

Sugar may have been mixed with the hot water, but Corrections hasn't confirmed it yet.

Motorists are told to expect delays.

The victim was pulled alive from the avalanche but died from their injures.

Woman says the vehicles of interest never left the accident scene.