A serious two-vehicle crash on State Highway 1 north of Wellington has forced the closure of southbound lanes and caused major traffic disruptions, leaving motorists stranded in heavy congestion during the evening rush hour.
Emergency services were called to the scene at approximately 4:40 p.m. following reports of a collision on the Johnsonville-Porirua Motorway. The crash occurred in the southbound lanes between the Tawa-Grenada North on-ramp and the Churton Park-Glenside off-ramp, a busy section of State Highway 1 that serves as a key commuter route into Wellington.
According to police, two vehicles were involved in the collision. One person sustained serious injuries and received treatment from emergency responders at the scene before being transported for further medical care. Authorities have not released the identity of the injured person or provided additional details regarding their condition.
The severity of the crash prompted the closure of the southbound lanes between the Tawa off-ramp and the Glenside on-ramp, bringing traffic to a near standstill. Motorists reported lengthy delays and significant congestion as vehicles backed up along the motorway and surrounding roads.
Police confirmed that the Serious Crash Unit has been notified and will investigate the circumstances surrounding the collision. Investigators are expected to examine factors that may have contributed to the crash and reconstruct the events leading up to the incident.
Traffic management crews and emergency personnel remained at the scene for an extended period as they worked to assist those involved, clear the wreckage, and ensure the safety of motorists traveling through the area.
Authorities are urging drivers to avoid the affected section of State Highway 1 if possible and to expect ongoing delays while emergency operations and the investigation continue. Commuters have been encouraged to seek alternative routes and allow additional travel time.
Further information regarding the cause of the crash and the condition of those involved is expected to be released as the investigation progresses. In the meantime, police continue to appeal for patience and caution from motorists navigating the heavily impacted area.