Road closes as man critically injured in two-truck crash in Palmerston North

Photo / Martin Sykes

A man is in critical condition after a two-truck crash in Palmerston North, which has closed the road as freight spilled across both lanes.

Emergency services attended the crash on Rangitikei Line in Newbury about 10.15am.

The man was taken to Palmerston North Hospital in serious condition, but a hospital representative confirmed this afternoon that he is now in intensive care in critical condition.

Police said the road is now open however a speed limit of 50km will remain in place overnight.

Diversions were in place around the crash site earlier today.

The NZ Transport Agency confirmed the road was still closed this afternoon between the intersections of Newbury Line and Hansens Line and urges motorists to allow extra time for diversions.

UPDATE: A section of #SH3 remains CLOSED btwn Palmerston Nth & Sanson. Allow extra time for diversions: https://t.co/IdYjTsNNMZ ^TP pic.twitter.com/OE4zjE7sgQ

— Waka Kotahi NZTA Central North Island (@WakaKotahiCNI) January 4, 2017

The crash has also cut power to 53 properties in Newbury.

Powerco network operations manager Phil Marsh said contractors were at the scene waiting to restore power, but could not begin work until police completed their investigation.

"There has been damage to some of our equipment that will need replacing," he said.

Power is not expected to be restored until 7.15pm, according to PowerCo.