SH2 closed near Dannevirke after fatal crash, major delays expected

One person has died following a crash on State Highway 2 near Dannevirke.

Police said the two-vehicle crash near Okane Rd at Matamau was reported just before 9.50am.

Police said a second person was seriously injured and the road would stay closed for some time while the Serious Crash Unit conducted a scene examination.

“Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays.”

Earlier, a Fire and Emergency spokeswoman said two people were trapped and crews from Dannevirke and Norsewood had helped with extraction.

A Hato Hone St John spokeswoman said two ambulances and one helicopter were sent to the scene and one person was airlifted to Palmerston North Hospital in a serious condition.

UPDATE 10:35AM
Due to a serious crash, SH2 is CLOSED between Pirimau Road and Tataramoa Road. Road users are advised to follow directions of emergency services, avoid the area and consider using an alternate route.
Please note local detour is not suitable for HPMV. ^JP https://t.co/kXs2M0BBjo pic.twitter.com/x2612VUj8T

— NZ Transport Agency - Central North Island (@nztacni) December 4, 2025