Car takes down power pole during morning rush

The car that took down a power pole during early morning rush at the intersection of SH1 and Raumanga Valley Rd. Photo/Supplied

Early morning commuters heading north to Whangārei took alternative routes after a car crashed into a power pole at the intersection of State Highway 1 and Raumanga Valley Rd.

The power pole and two lines, an 11,000 volt and a 400 volt one, all came down in the crash that happened about 6.10am today.Police were called to the scene at 6.10am after reports of a car crashing into a power pole.

Acting Sergeant Brett Steel said a Mazda heading north appeared to have failed to take a corner and smashed into the power pole, damaging the driver's side of the vehicle.

The driver was the sole occupant and was uninjured.

Steel said preliminary investigations ruled out speed and alcohol as the causes of the crash.

The driver was shaken and police were expected to speak to him late today. Three Northpower lines crews were working on the damaged pole, gradually restoring supply to "pockets" in the affected suburb.

About half had power by 10am and electricity was fully restored at 11.43am.
Vehicles heading north and south were being diverted through Rewarewa Rd while south-bound heavy vehicles through SH14 and SH15, by Maungatapere, to rejoin SH1.

The road was fully opened by 2.30pm.