"An investigation into the cause of the crash is underway."
UPDATE 8:25AM#SH35 Te Araroa remains CLOSED, due to a serious crash south of Tokata Rd. Please continue to avoid the area or delay your journey if possible, as there is no suitable detour available. ^APhttps://t.co/A7r51eRJf4
— Waka Kotahi NZTA Central North Island (@WakaKotahiCNI) November 15, 2020
Emergency services remain at the spot, just north of Gisborne, more than three hours after the incident.
Motorists have been told to avoid the area altogether, as the road is closed off.
Fire and Emergency NZ earlier said it had sent two fire trucks to the crash.