Crashes cleared on Auckland Harbour Bridge, but motorists warned of delays

Emergency services were called to the bridge about 5.20pm after a multiple car crash going southbound. Photo / Supplied

Lanes on the Auckland Harbour Bridge have all been reopened after two crashes in both directions closed parts of the bridge this evening.

Up to four people suffered moderate injuries in a five-vehicle pile up about 5.10pm.

Two southbound lanes were blocked as a result, and tow services were called in to clear the site.

"Congestion is building. Please delay your journey until all three lanes can be reopened,'' the NZ Transport Agency said earlier.

The crash was cleared about 5.45pm, but motorists are being told to delay travel, if possible, or to consider an alternative route because of congestion.

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Cars going south are delayed. Photo / Supplied

Police said after dealing with the first crash, they were called to a second accident on the bridge at 5.50pm - this time, on a northbound lane before the Stafford Road off-ramp.

"[It] has blocked the left lane of three heading north on the Harbour Bridge. Expect delays northbound through St Mary's Bay,'' a statement said.

There were no serious injuries, police said.

Although the bridge is now cleared, motorists are being told to allow extra travel time as congestion eases.

SH1 AKL HBR BRIDGE, SOUTHBOUND - CRASH - 5:20PM
A crash is blocking lanes 2 & 3 (of 3) southbound currently on the Harbour Bridge. Tow services are required & congestion is building. Please delay your journey south until all 3 lanes can be reopened. ^TP pic.twitter.com/NOhayJFVOk

— Waka Kotahi NZTA Auckland & Northland (@WakaKotahiAkNth) January 1, 2019