Police urge patience on roads after three-car crash in Hawke's Bay

Emergency services were called to the scene at around 12.35pm west of Waipukurau along State Highway 2, near the intersection of Maharakeke Rd. Photo / Paul Taylor

Three people were taken to Hawke's Bay Hospital, after a three-car crash just outside the Waipukurau Golf Club, as police ask for patience on our roads.

Emergency services were called to the crash west of Waipukurau along State Highway 2, near the intersection of Maharakeke Rd, about 12.35pm.

A police spokeswoman said one person was trapped and had moderate injuries.

St John Ambulance confirmed they transported three people to Hawke's Bay Hospital, two in moderate conditions and one minor.

The southbound lane of the road was blocked and under stop/go traffic control and was cleared and reopened at 2.55pm.

Assistant Commissioner for Road Policing Sandra Venables said that this time of year was busy on the roads and asked drivers to be more careful to minimise accidents.

"January is one of our highest risk months on the roads as so many people are still on holiday; traveling around visiting loved ones and making the most of their time off over the summer.

"We want all road users to do this safely, and not end up in hospital, or worse, the mortuary."

SH2 TAKAPAU, HAWKE'S BAY - CRASH - FINAL UPDATE 2:55PM This crash is now CLEAR and the road is fully OPEN....

Posted by Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency Central North Island on Wednesday, 1 January 2020

She said police will continue their high presence and high activity on the roads and will be looking out for people who are undertaking risky behaviour and putting themselves or others at risk.

"So if you don't want to meet us at the roadside or at your crash site, please do these simple things: wear your seatbelt, put your phone away out of reach, don't be distracted by other things going on in the vehicle, and always drive sober and alert and within the posted speed limit," Venables said.

"This also means driving to the conditions, whether that's traffic, weather, or our rural roads, and watch your following distances. This is for your, and everyone else's, protection."