Major Emergency Response as 11 Injured in Serious Far North Collision
By Lions Roar News Northland Bureau
WAIPAPAKAURI, NEW ZEALAND (Thursday, January 15, 2026) — A massive rescue operation was launched in the Far North this afternoon following a serious two-vehicle crash on State Highway 1. Eleven people have been confirmed injured, with several victims requiring urgent airlift to hospital.
The incident occurred at approximately 4:40 PM in the rural settlement of Waipapakauri, bringing traffic on the region’s main artery to a complete standstill.
🚁 Massive Medical Deployment
The severity of the crash necessitated an immediate and large-scale response from emergency services. St John and Police units descended on the scene within minutes.
- Air Support: Two rescue helicopters were dispatched to the scene to transport the most critically injured.
- Ground Support: Two ambulances, two St John rapid response units, and an operations manager provided on-site triage.
- Casualty Report:
- 3 People: In serious condition.
- 4 People: In moderate condition.
- 4 People: Sustained minor to moderate injuries.
“Some of those injured were trapped and required extraction before being airlifted to hospital,” an emergency spokesperson confirmed.
🛣️ Traffic & Investigation
State Highway 1 was closed in both directions for several hours as emergency crews worked to clear the wreckage and transport the injured.
- Road Status: The highway reopened at approximately 7:30 PM.
- Police Action: Serious Crash Unit investigators are currently examining the scene to determine the cause of the collision.
- Witnesses: Police are urging anyone who witnessed the crash or has dashcam footage of the vehicles prior to the incident to come forward.
