Christmas Day delays on Desert Road

Motorists travelling on the Desert Rd on Christmas Day experienced long delays after chemicals were found inside a car after a crash.

Senior Sergeant Duncan McKenzie, of Turangi, said police tried to stop a Ford Falcon travelling north of Waiouru about 3pm yesterday when the driver allegedly sped off.

The driver lost control of the car and crashed into a bank near the Three Sisters on State Highway 1, 22km south of Turangi.

As emergency services treated the man for minor injuries, hazardous chemicals were found, forcing the closure of the road for about two hours, Mr McKenzie said.

A 38-year-old man has been arrested on traffic related charges. A 28-year-old female was also arrested on an outstanding warrant and was due to appear in the Taupo District Court today.

Police inquiries are continuing.

- NZPA