“Hato Hone St John responded to the incident with one ambulance, a rapid response vehicle, and two operations managers.”
The patient being transferred was taken to Whangārei.
“The damaged ambulance has been taken off the road and will be assessed today to determine the extent of the damage,” she said.
Murray said Hato Hone St John took the health and safety of patients and ambulance staff “very seriously” and was providing support to those involved and co-operating with police to understand the circumstances.
A motorist who wanted to remain anonymous said they saw the ambulance in a ditch as they passed the scene.
The other vehicle, a ute, was also dented, and the ambulance had a “fair bit of damage” on the driver’s side, they said.
“I’m just hoping there was no one inside that was hurt.”
It looked as though the ute had been travelling north and the ambulance was travelling south, they said.
Only a few motorists managed to get through before the road was blocked off.
New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said the road would be closed while recovery vehicles were on site to clear the scene.
The crash occurred between Puhipuhi Rd and Waiotu Block Rd.
“Travellers are advised to avoid the area if possible and expect delays.”
Hato Hone St John has been approached for comment.
Brodie Stone covers crime and emergency for the Northern Advocate. She has spent most of her life in Whangārei and is passionate about delving into issues that matter to Northlanders and beyond.