Person critical after Southwestern Motorway crash involving car and truck, lanes, off-ramp closed

The driver of the car was extracted from the vehicle and taken to Auckland City Hospital in a critical condition.

Two northbound lanes were closed while the Serious Crash Unit conducted a scene examination, said the spokesperson.

At 7.20am, the New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) said the Coronation Rd off-ramp is closed and advised motorists to “pass with care and expect delays” earlier this morning.

One lane has reopened, leaving two available for traffic, it said at the same time.

“Traffic is heavy as far back as the link from SH1. Consider an alternative route, delay travel or expect delays.”

Traffic shown on Google Maps at 7.30am this morning. Photo / Google Maps

Google Maps is showing gridlocked traffic in that area.

UPDATE 7:00AM

The northbound Coronation Rd off-ramp is still closed, along with two lanes of the motorway. Traffic is heavy as far back as the link from SH1. Consider an alternative route, delay travel or expect delays. ^KF https://t.co/Qt8lkgliW9

— NZ Transport Agency – Auckland & Northland (@nztaaklnth) December 2, 2025

Inquiries into the crash remain ongoing, said a police spokesperson.

The trapped driver was freed eight minutes after crews arrived on the scene, and 16 minutes after they got the call, Fire and Emergency shift manager Josh Pennefather told the Herald.

Fire and Emergency sent three fire engines to the accident, one being a specialist rescue vehicle.

Hato Hone St John sent one transport ambulance, one critical care Jeep and one operations manager.