A fourth patient was assessed and declined transport from the scene.
A person driving past the incident, who wished to remain anonymous, told the Waikato Herald it was a “very scary scene”.
“There was a vehicle stuck under the left-hand side wheel [of the truck],” they said.
“The whole front of the vehicle was crushed. There were four [people] laying on the ground.
“There were ladies putting jackets over … [them] … but there was no movement.
“It also looked… as though someone was still trapped in the car as motorists were trying to help someone inside.
“I have been in New Zealand for two years now and have never experienced [something like] this.”
Police said the crash happened between Pukete and River Roads and blocked Wairere Drive. Image / Google Maps
Police said the crash happened between Pukete and River roads, with Wairere Drive blocked.
The Serious Crash Unit is carrying out a scene examination.
Pukete Bridge is closed while emergency services work at the scene. Diversions are in place.
“Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.”
Fire and Emergency New Zealand sent two pump trucks and a specialist rescue vehicle, with brigades from Te Rapa, Chartwell and Hamilton attending.
The teams were on scene for about half an hour and carried out one extraction, a spokesperson said.