Road reopens after serious crash on airport route

A major road to Auckland Airport has reopened after a serious crash this morning.

Firefighters cut a person out of a car after a smash near the airport's viewing area on Puhinui Rd.

Those heading to the city's airport are advised to use the alternate entrance on George Bolt Memorial Drive and plan for extra travel time.

Traveling to the Airport this AM? Detour in place via SH20A #AllowExtraTime https://t.co/zZgusQbf51

— Auckland CDEM (@AucklandCDEM) July 14, 2016

The New Zealand Transport Agency said the highway was closed between the Puhinui off-ramps and the airport, but has now reopened.

The agency was advising motorists to avoid the area, delay travel or use the George Bolt Memorial Drive as an alternative.

Northern Fire Service shift manager Jaron Phillips said one person is trapped in a car and firefighters are using cutting gear. It was believed a truck was also involved in the crash.

Passengers heading to the airport show allow plenty of time for their journey and to expect a lot more traffic on alternative routes.

An NZTA spokeswoman said traffic was very heavy westbound along the Southwestern Motorway.

There has been a accident on SH20B on Puhinui Rd. Alternative route to airport will be SH20A. Please allow extra time for travel.

— Auckland Airport (@AKL_Airport) July 14, 2016