Two people seriously injured in Waitomo crash

One person has been seriously injured after a crash on State Highway 4 between Takiri Rd and Air Strip Rd, north of Taumarunui. File photo / NZ Herald

Two people have been seriously hurt in a crash in an isolated area of Waitomo District this morning.

Emergency services were called shortly before 10am after the crash on State Highway 4 between Takiri Rd and Air Strip Rd, about 50km south of Te Kuiti,

District road policing manager Inspector Leo Tooman said a man and a woman were seriously, possibly critically injured when their respective vehicles collided near an area known to locals as the Hewi Hills.

The man was cut out of his car by firefighters and flown to Waikato Hospital by air ambulance, while emergency services were still working to free the woman.

A second helicopter had been called from Taupo to transport her once she was freed.

Two dogs travelling in the back of one of the vehicles were also injured.

Mr Tooman said motorists can expect delays this afternoon as road closures are in place while emergency services clear the road.

Alternative routes have been signposted but police said it was important that trucks did not go there as they would have little or no room to turn around.

The police serious crash unit is investigating the crash.

- NZPA