A serious crash on a SH1 diversion route will force motorists to detour via Rotorua until at least early afternoon.
Emergency services were called to the two-vehicle crash on Whakamaru Rd, State Highway 32, south of Tokoroa, at 6.30am.
New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said SH32 was closed between SH1 and SH30 in both directions.
State Highway 1 south of Tokoroa is also closed for major maintenance works, meaning motorists now face a longer detour in both directions along the North Island’s main arterial route and are being advised to plan their journey carefully.
Motorists should refer to NZTA’s journey planner for more up-to-date information.