Police say the occupant of a car that rear-ended a truck has died after they got out of their car and were struck by another vehicle on the Waikato Expressway on Friday afternoon.
They say a car was travelling north during a period of heavy rain when it rear-ended a northbound truck around midday near Hampton Downs.
One of the car's occupants got out and was struck by another vehicle travelling in the southbound lane.
Police say despite the best efforts of emergency services, the person died at the scene.
The Serious Crash Unit was at the scene and inquiries were continuing.
State Highway 1 was closed in both directions for several hours, however, NZ Transport Agency advised just after 5.30pm that it had reopened.
FINAL UPDATE - 5:40PM
— NZ Transport Agency - Auckland & Northland (@nztaaklnth) June 14, 2024
All lanes (in both directions) are OPEN on State Highway 1 between Hampton Downs Rd Interchange. Thank you for your patience this afternoon. Allow extra time for delays in the area to ease. ^JF https://t.co/XUa6j5MLYM
Earlier, it advised State Highway 1 was closed in both directions between the Hampton Downs Rd off and on-ramps.
Emergency services are responding to a serious crash on the Waikato Expressway, Hampton Downs reported around 12:05pm. Two vehicles are believed to have been involved. Initial indications suggest there are serious injuries. The northbound lane is blocked, and diversions are being put in place at the Rodda Road on-ramp and Hampton Downs off-ramp. Motorists are advised to avoid the area. 14 June 2024 New Zealand Herald photograph by Alanah Eriksen Photo: NZME
"It is likely to remain closed for some time as NZ Police commence crash investigations."
UPDATE - 2:10PM#SH1 remains CLOSED in both directions between Hampton Downs Rd Interchange. It will remain closed for some time as NZ Police commence crash investigations. Delay your journey or use an alternative route. More information here: https://t.co/OqV8sNPhOL ^JF https://t.co/cBmnhun1wH
— NZ Transport Agency - Auckland & Northland (@nztaaklnth) June 14, 2024
Waka Kotahi said road conditions were wet and it was asking motorists to watch out for surface flooding, slips and fallen trees.
