Driver critically injured after truck rolled in gorge

State Highway 2 at Karangahake Gorge, near Waihi, was closed tonight after an 18-wheeler truck rolled, critically injuring the driver and spilling oil on to the road.

The driver suffered serious head injuries and was airlifted to Auckland Hospital, Constable Scotty Slater of Waihi Police said.

His 11-year-old nephew travelling with him was uninjured in the accident which occurred at 5.35pm between Waikino and Karangahake.

Police had cleaned up the oil and hoped to have the highway reopened by 10pm, Mr Slater told NZPA.

- NZPA