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.”
A section of a road in the nearby suburb of Blockhouse Bay is also closed due to a damaged power pole.
Police say emergency services responded to a single-vehicle crash just after midday on Blockhouse Bay Rd near the intersection with Matata St.
A power pole has been damaged as a result.
“Fortunately the occupant of the vehicle is not seriously injured.”
Blockhouse Bay Rd is currently closed at the intersections with Puketea St and Margate Rd.
“Expect delays in the area or take an alternative route if at all possible.”
Contractors have arrived on scene to repair the power line but it is not yet clear how long it will take to complete their work.
More to come
