The accident occurred at Tea Gardens around 6.50pm on Wednesday.

Mr Allen was driving a Daihatsu Applause sedan when he turned right from Viney Creek Rd onto the Pacific Highway.

Police believe he then began travelling north on the incorrect side of the road.

At the same time, a Toyota Landcruiser four-wheel-drive was travelling south along the highway.

The two vehicles collided head on about five kilometres north of Myall Way and Mr Allen died at the scene.

The 36-year-old male driver of the other vehicle was taken by ambulance to Newcastle’s John Hunter Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

Police from Newcastle Crash Investigation Unit, Lower Hunter and Manning/Great Lakes Local Area Commands attended the scene and conducted inquiries.

The Pacific Highway was closed in both directions for more than four hours.

Inquiries are continuing and a report will be prepared for the information of the NSW Coroner.