Two people dead after serious SH1 crashes within 7km of each other near Levin

Two people have died following two separate serious crashes on State Highway 1 south of Levin this evening.

One person died following a serious crash on SH1 near Mcleavy Rd around 4.50pm, a police spokesperson said.

Two other people were injured in the crash and were transported to hospital by helicopter, one with critical injuries.

One person died in the crash and two more have been taken to hospital. Photo / Janine Baalbergen

"Diversions are in place but motorists should expect significant delays and avoid the area if possible," the spokesperson said.

Motorists are asked by the NZ Transport Agency to follow directions of emergency services on the scene and allow extra time.

SH1 OHAU, MANAWATU-WHANGANUI - SERIOUS CRASH - 5:15PM
Due to a serious #crash, the road is CLOSED between the intersections with Vista Rd and Mcleavey Rd with a detour in place. Please expect #delays through the area. ^EL pic.twitter.com/HZBZBDoabN

— Waka Kotahi NZTA Central North Island (@WakaKotahiCNI) November 27, 2018

About 7km south of the first incident, another person died in a seperate crash, around 7.10pm.

The second incident involved a car and a truck and occurred north of the intersection of Waikawa Beach Rd and SH1.

Both crashes forced emergency services to close SH1 and detours were put in place.

SH1 MANAKAU, MANAWATU-WHANGANUI - SERIOUS CRASH - 7:30PM
Due to a #crash involving a truck, State Highway 1 is now CLOSED between Waikawa Beach Rd & North Manakau Rd. No detour available so please delay your journey. Please note the road remains CLOSED further north in Ohau. ^EL pic.twitter.com/ByDhXXNv6B

— Waka Kotahi NZTA Central North Island (@WakaKotahiCNI) November 27, 2018