Two vehicle crash on SH1 leaves five people injured

Wednesday, 22 January 2020

Five people were injured - including one who was trapped - in a serious crash on State Highway 1 in the South Waikato. 

Both lanes of the highway between Putaruru and Tirau were blocked following the two-car crash that happened just after 1pm on Wednesday. 

A person in critical condition was flown to Waikato Hospital, a St John spokeswoman said.

One person in serious condition, two moderate and one with minor injuries were also taken to Waikato by road.

A detour was in place for a time, but the road reopened around 3.30pm, Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency said.

One of the patients was trapped in the crash, Fire and Emergency northern communications shift manager Carren Larking said. 

Two fire trucks from Putaruru and Tīrau along with a support vehicle were at the scene, along with police and St John ambulance staff. 

Police confirmed they were in attendance at the crash. A helicopter was also called.

The collision was between Webster Rd and Whites Rd. 

A serious crash is BLOCKING lanes on #SH1 between Tirau and Putaruru. Emergency services are on-site and delays are HEAVY. Avoid the area. More to come when known. ^MF pic.twitter.com/d8zv1b2dG4

— NZTA Waikato/BoP (@NZTAWaiBoP) January 22, 2020