Kiwi spirit shown as public helps move fallen tree from State Highway 1

Around 20 people who were halted by the fallen branches decided to move the debris themselves. Photo / Supplied

The Kiwi spirit of getting stuck in has been on display after strong winds brought down multiple tree branches and blocked part of State Highway 1 near Mangaweka.

It was one of many wind-related callouts emergency services responded to in the region on Monday, with fire crews in Whanganui attending four incidents of power lines being affected by wind between 8am and 3pm.

At 3.45pm on Monday police were alerted to the fallen branches which were blocking both lanes near Reservoir Rd.

The state highway wasn't blocked for long, as more than 20 people sprung from their vehicles to help move the debris.

The branches were cut up and taken off the road by members of the public. Photo / Supplied

Naomi Humphries was one of those at the blockage and said she was amazed by what she saw.

"Everybody got out of their cars and just got stuck in and helped," she said.

"Right across the road you could not get through, but everyone thought let's all help and get it out the way."

Humphries said there were close to 40 vehicles lined up on one side of the blockage.

One man had a small chainsaw to cut off pieces while others helped to pull pieces of the trees off the road.

"It is New Zealand spirit to get stuck in and help," Humphries said.

The road was fully cleared and reopened by 5.30pm.