Two multiple-car crashes in Waikato in two hours

A crash involving three trucks and a ute on SH1 required the attendance of the Westpac helicopter from Hamilton and the Bay Trust helicopter from Rotorua. Photo / Philips Search And Rescue Trust

Two serious crashes in the Waikato have seen diversions put in place and one person with critical injuries.

Police were first called to State Highway 1 north of Tokoroa about 12.10pm for a crash involving three trucks and a ute.

According to the St John Twitter account three ambulances and a rescue helicopter attended the scene and three people were treated for injuries.

ROAD CLOSED - UPDATE 2:15PM#SH2 north of Tokoroa is now CLOSED with detours between Rollett Rd & Wiltsdown Rd (south of Lichfield) which will add 15-20 minutes to your journey. Allow extra time, delay your journey or consider alternative route. ^TP
https://t.co/ZGxxnOCrlO

— Waka Kotahi NZTA Waikato/BoP (@WakaKotahiWaiBP) August 2, 2018

One has serious injuries, one moderate, and one minor.

A New Zealand Transport Agency twitter update at 2.15pm said the road was closed with detours between Rollett Rd and Wiltsdown Rd.

At 1.40pm, three cars crashed on Piako Rd at the intersection of Puketaha Rd on the outskirts of Hamilton.

Waikato police Senior Sergeant Mike Henwood said a power line had been compromised in the crash.

One person is in a critical condition after being trapped in the car and being freed by firefighters.

Wel Networks are also on their way to the scene to cut power.