Collision kills off charity Foo Fighters gig in Auckland; truck driver in stable condition

The driver of the truck is in a stable condition at Palmerston North Hospital. Photo / supplied

A truck driver transporting the Foo Fighter's gear from Christchurch to Auckland is in a stable condition in Palmerston North Hospital after he crashed into a paddock yesterday.

He was airlifted in a serious condition by the Taranaki Rescue Helicopter after the crash on State Highway One near Taihape at about 1pm.

A photo provided to the Herald from the helicopter crew shows the truck on its side, and the extent of the damage.

The crash derailed plans for the Foo Fighter's charity show at Auckland's Town Hall tonight.

The show, set to raise funds for the New Zealand Music Foundation, was cancelled late last night after the truck transporting the band's equipment from Christchurch to Auckland was involved in a crash.

No other vehicles were involved.

The male driver suffered serious injuries and was airlifted to hospital by rescue helicopter.

A police spokeswoman said the crash was being investigated by Taihape police and the Commercial Vehicle Investigation Unit (CVIU). She could not comment further on the specifics.

The crash happened the day of the 20th anniversary of the Foo Fighters first ever gig together, which took place on February 19 in Seattle, Washington.

In a statement last night band members Dave Grohl, Taylor Hawkins, Pat Smear, Nate Mendel and Chris Shiflett offered a message of support to the driver via Frontier Touring.

"Foo Fighters and Frontier's thoughts are with our crew member for a full recovery. We apologise for any inconvenience caused to ticket buyers," they said in a statement.

Last night, fans reacted well to the news, showing support for the band and the injured driver.

"Thank goodness the driver will be OK," Belinda Spargo wrote on the Foo Fighters' Facebook page. "A big thank you to you guys, [you've] always shown love for us Kiwis and our country. We truly appreciate it."

Kim Damerell wrote: "That's a shame but glad the driver will be OK."

Lynda Whitlow wrote: "I'm glad the driver will be OK. Thank you Foo Fighters for doing your best to help the NZMF, you are such good blokes."

Fans wishing to make a donation to New Zealand Music Foundation are able to do so here.