State highway 1 at Ōhau has been reopened between Manakau and Levin after a fatal crash earlier this afternoon.
Photo: Google Maps
Emergency services were at the scene near Kuku Beach Road this afternoon, after reports to police about 1.55pm.
Several people were injured in the crash, which was between a truck and a car.
A St John spokesperson said seven were treated for injuries, with two taken to Palmerston North Hospital.
NZTA said towaways were taking place and work was underway to restore downed power lines.
Motorists should continue to expect delays. The road will be closed again from 10pm through to the early hours of tomorrow for vehicle recovery and urgent repairs, the Transport Agency said.
There is no detour route when the road is closed so motorists are advised to avoid the area or delay travel until it reopens.
A truck haulage company, Hilton Haulage, says one of their drivers swerved to avoid a car.
It says the truck went over a bank and crashed into a cemetery.
The Serious Crash Unit has been notified.
UPDATE 5:20PM
— NZTA Central Nth Is (@NZTACNI) December 22, 2019
Following a serious crash, #SH1 Ohau is now OPEN under traffic management. Take extra care & continue to expect DELAYS in both directions. The road will be CLOSING again at 10pm for full vehicle recovery. Please plan ahead and drive safe. ^CR https://t.co/6EphNFXe35
