Three hurt in serious crash near Taupо̄

Three people have been hurt in a serious crash that blocked State Highway 5 between Taupо̄ and Napier.

The crash happened yesterday at Iwitahi, about 20km southeast of Taupо̄, at 3.10pm.

A St John spokeswoman said two ambulances and three helicopters were sent to the scene.

Three patients, all with serious injuries, were flown to hospital, she said. Two went to Waikato Hospital and one to Hawke’s Bay Hospital.

A statement from police said SH5 was blocked but reopened just after 7pm.

Earlier police advised motorists to avoid the road as no diversions were available.