A major emergency response was launched near Gisborne after a serious crash left multiple people injured, prompting the deployment of five ambulances and three rescue helicopters.
Emergency services rushed to the scene following reports of the collision, with paramedics and rescue crews working to assess and treat those involved.
Authorities confirmed that 11 patients were transported to hospital for treatment. The extent of their injuries has not yet been disclosed.
The large-scale response included multiple ambulance crews and air rescue teams, highlighting the severity of the incident.
Police and emergency officials are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding the crash. Further details, including the cause of the collision and the conditions of those injured, are expected to be released as inquiries continue.
The crash led to the complete closure of State Highway 1 in the affected area, with traffic rapidly backing up in both directions. Long queues of vehicles stretched for kilometres as emergency crews worked to secure the scene, assist victims and begin an investigation into the cause of the collision.
Many motorists reported being trapped on the highway for several hours, with some eventually abandoning their vehicles in an attempt to seek assistance, food, water, or alternative transport arrangements. Frustration grew as traffic remained gridlocked well into the evening.
Authorities urged motorists to avoid the area wherever possible and warned that significant delays could continue even after the road reopens. Traffic management teams were deployed to divert vehicles and coordinate recovery operations.
Emergency responders remained at the scene throughout the day, while specialist crash investigators began examining evidence to determine how the collision occurred. Officials have not yet confirmed the number of vehicles involved or whether any charges are expected to result from the investigation.
Local authorities praised the efforts of paramedics, rescue helicopter crews, firefighters and police officers who worked under challenging conditions to assist those affected.
The incident serves as a reminder of the dangers faced on busy highways and the significant impact major crashes can have on transport networks. Drivers are being urged to exercise caution, follow official traffic updates and allow extra travel time while recovery operations continue .
