Driver airlifted after fiery crash on closed Targa Rally route south of Rotorua

Emergency services were called to the crash on Bryce Rd just after 9.30am.

Two people have been injured, one critically, after a car crashed into a tree south of Rotorua.

Emergency services were called to the crash on Bryce Rd just after 9.30am.

The road was closed this morning for a stage of the Targa Rally.

A Fire and Emergency NZ spokesman said two trucks were called to the crash at Ngākuru just after 9.30am.

“On arrival crews found a car crashed into a tree and the car was on fire.

“All persons were out of the car.”

A Hato Hone St John spokesman said two ambulances, one rapid response unit, and one helicopter were called to the crash on Bryce Rd

One person has been airlifted to Waikato Hospital in critical condition and one has been taken to Rotorua Hospital by road in serious condition, he said.

Police said they were notified of vehicle on fire after crashing into a tree on Bryce Rd about 9.30am.

The Serious Crash Unit was in attendance.

According to the Rotorua Lakes Council website, Bryce Rd was closed this morning for a stage of the Targa Rally.

When asked if the vehicle was involved in the rally, police directed the Rotorua Daily Post to rally organisers.

Rally organisers declined to comment.