Desert Road.
Photo: RNZ / Jimmy Ellingham
The Desert Road is closed between Waiouru and Rangipo following a crash.
The New Zealand Transport Agency said it could take several hours for State Highway 1 to reopen, while the Serious Crash Unit is investigating.
Police were called to the scene of the two-vehicle crash, between Shawcroft Road and Access Road 17, just before 3am. Initial indications are that there have been serious injuries.
Motorists are asked to avoid the area.
There is a detour in place which will take drivers a further 40 minutes.
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