SH1 Crash: Kaiwaka Incident – Air Rescue & Hospitalisation

Kaiwaka, New Zealand – December 20, 2025, 12:38:00 NZDT – A two-vehicle crash north of Kaiwaka sent one person to Auckland City Hospital via helicopter Saturday.The incident on state Highway 1 caused notable traffic disruptions. Authorities closed the highway for several hours while emergency crews worked.

Highway Shutdown After Serious Crash Near Kaiwaka

A major traffic artery was closed this morning following a collision involving two vehicles.

Key Facts – One person was airlifted to Auckland City Hospital in serious condition. Another patient was transported to Northland Base hospital with minor injuries. State Highway 1 was closed between Kaiwaka-mangawhai Rd and Baldrock Rd.Motorists were advised to avoid the area.

Crash Details – Police responded to the crash shortly before 9:30 a.m. between Greenway and Mountain Roads. St John ambulance dispatched a helicopter, ambulance, rapid response unit, and first response unit.

“Crews assessed and treated three patients,” a St John spokesperson said. “One was airlifted to Auckland City Hospital in serious condition, another to Northland Base Hospital with minor injuries, and one had no reported injuries.”

Road Closure – The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) closed State Highway 1 north of Kaiwaka, advising drivers to detour via Kaiwaka-Mangawhai Rd and Baldrock Rd.

Authorities urged motorists to avoid the area due to substantial delays. The road reopened after midday. Police are investigating the cause of the crash. An earlier report incorrectly stated the airlifted patient was in critical condition.

Traffic Diversions and Delays

The closure of State Highway 1 caused significant disruption to travel plans.Drivers were encouraged to seek alternative routes or postpone journeys. The detour added considerable time to travel.

Ongoing Updates

Police are continuing to investigate. Motorists can check the NZTA website for road conditions and detour facts.