Two hospitalised after 40m truck and trailer plunge

Two people have been taken to hospital after their vehicle plunged 40 metres down a bank beside State Highway 4 at Piraka, south of Taumarunui.

Taumarunui police are investigating what caused the truck and trailer to crash and inflict "moderate to serious" injuries on the occupants.

Sergeant Mia Wilton said the damage was lessened due to the unladen trailer.

"The trailer unit was empty at the time and it is believed the crash would have been more serious if it had been laden with goods," she said.

- NZPA