SunLive – SH2 remains closed after accident

Update, 7.30pm: State Highway 2 near Pukehina remains closed following a serious crash.

Police say the scene is still being examined.

“It may take some time before the road is reopened,” a police spokesman said.

“Tauranga State Highway 2 is closed east of Rogers Rd at Pukehini due to an accident,” NZTA spokesman Waka Kotahi said.

“Delay your trip or allow extra time for a detour.”

An alternative route has been designated.

If travelling east, detour via Pukehina Station Rd and Old Coach Rd then return to State Highway 2.

Westbound traffic flows in the reverse direction.

Heavy goods vehicles and HPMVs should use SH33 and SH30.

Earlier, at 2:00 PM:

State Highway 2 near Pukehina is closed after a serious crash.

A police spokesman said police were called to the crash on State Highway 2 at about 1:55 p.m.

“Emergency services are responding to a serious crash on State Highway 2 at Pukehina, near Rogers Road.

“The Major Accidents Unit is on site.

The road is blocked, detours have been organised.

“Drivers are advised to avoid the area if possible and expect delays.”

The highway is closed and drivers are being diverted from the scene. Photo provided.

A witness at the scene states that a passenger car and a truck were involved in the incident.

He says the car is “crushed” and there is a trail of debris on the road.

The overturned truck was on the side of the tracks.

The witness, who has not been named, said he was travelling from Whakatāne to Tauranga when he stumbled upon the scene, likely minutes after the incident.

He says he saw someone being helped as he exited the truck cab and first responders arrived on the scene.

A witness at the scene said a helicopter was on the scene and police were now working on detours.

“The detour is onto Old Coach Road, to Otamarakau Road and then back onto SH2 to Matata Straights.

“It’s a quick diversion, but we’re at the front of the line, so it could get worse soon.”

NZTA traffic alert advises that there has been a crash on SH2 near Matata.

“Due to a crash east of Rodgers Road, the lanes are blocked,” the statement said.

“Expect delays and proceed through the scene with caution.”

People are advised to follow the instructions of emergency services at the scene.

Detours are as follows: eastbound traffic should divert to Pukehina Station Rd and Old Coach Rd and then join westbound State Highway 2 in the opposite direction. Heavy goods vehicles, HPMV – use SH33 and SH30.

SunLive is working to obtain additional information and will provide an update as soon as possible.

At location?

Call 0800 SUNLIVE or email photos to [email protected]