Bay of Plenty Highway 35 Closed After Serious Two-Vehicle Crash; Three Injured Near Omaio and Pariokara

Serious Two-Vehicle Crash Shuts Down Bay of Plenty's State Highway 35

A significant traffic disruption has occurred in New Zealand's picturesque Bay of Plenty region, where a crucial section of State Highway 35 remains closed following a serious two-vehicle collision. The incident, which took place on Thursday evening, has led to the full closure of the highway in both directions between the localities of Omaio and Pariokara.

Three Seriously Injured; Serious Crash Unit Notified

Emergency services were dispatched to the crash site around 5:50 PM. Authorities have confirmed that three individuals sustained serious injuries in the collision and are currently receiving urgent medical attention. Due to the severity of the incident, the national Serious Crash Unit has been notified and will be leading the investigation into the exact causes and circumstances of the accident.

Motorists Advised of Significant Delays

Motorists planning to traverse this route are facing considerable delays and are strongly advised to seek alternative pathways or postpone non-essential travel through the area. Local traffic management teams are on-site, working to manage the flow of vehicles and ensure the safety of emergency personnel. The closure highlights the critical importance of vigilance and adherence to road safety protocols, particularly on main arterial routes.

Officials anticipate providing further updates regarding the highway's status and expected reopening times as their assessment and recovery operations progress. Drivers are encouraged to stay informed through official channels before embarking on their journeys.