'Avoid the area': Christmas Eve pick-up truck crash blocks major Auckland road

A multi-vehicle Christmas Eve crash involving a pick-up truck has blocked a major Auckland road and left five people requiring medical assessment. Police say a pick-up truck collided with several vehicles on New North Rd in Kingsland. The crash was reported near the intersection with King St at 12.20pm. Emergency services are in attendance at the crash, which is causing delays. “The crash has blocked both directions of New North Rd, between King and New Bond Sts.” No serious injuries are currently being reported from the scene, though five people require medical assessment. Images seen by the Herald from the scene show several wrecked vehicles across a considerable stretch of the road. One appears to have come to a stop after ploughing into a sizeable pole outside a store at 373 New North Rd. Police are asking motorists to “please avoid the area if possible while the scene is cleared or expect delays on your travels”. “Allow additional time to reach your destination safely this Christmas Eve.” Auckland Transport has advised bus routes along the road are being rerouted as a result of the incident. “There is an emergency services incident on the intersection of New North Rd and King St and Kingsland and is fully closed,” a notification from the transport agency says. “Routes 22N, 22R, 24B and 24R will detour through Onslow Rd, Dominion Rd, Charles St, George St and New North Rd.”