Four Crashes in 40 Minutes Leave Two Seriously Injured in Hawke’s Bay

Published: 17 July 2025

In a shocking and alarming sequence of events, four separate crashes occurred within a span of just 40 minutes across Hawke’s Bay, resulting in two people being seriously injured. The incidents, which unfolded in quick succession, have raised concerns about road safety and the need for improved traffic management in the region.

According to police reports, the first incident occurred around 12:40 PM on Kennedy Rd, near Trinity Cres in Napier. A three-vehicle crash was reported, with one person sustaining serious injuries. Emergency services were quickly on the scene, and the northbound lane was temporarily blocked. Hato Hone St John, the local ambulance provider, confirmed that three people were assessed at the location, with one requiring immediate transport to Hawke’s Bay Hospital in a serious condition.

About an hour later, at approximately 1:00 PM, police were called to a rural area near Wanstead, where a vehicle was found upside down and still warm to the touch—but with no driver inside. Authorities are currently conducting inquiries to locate the missing driver.

At 1:16 PM, a two-vehicle crash occurred on Ngatarawa Rd, near State Highway 50 by Roys Hill. Fortunately, no injuries were reported in this incident, and the road remained open without any blockage.

Just minutes later, at around 1:20 PM, another single-vehicle crash was reported on Neeve Rd in Taradale. Initial reports indicated the driver was seriously injured. The Serious Crash Unit was alerted, and motorists were advised to expect delays and follow diversion routes.

In addition to these incidents, a section of State Highway 2 north of Dannevirke had been closed for over 12 hours following an early-morning crash involving a truck and trailer that flipped over. The road was closed at 1:49 AM, with a detour available through Kiritaki and Maharahara roads. The driver was not believed to be injured, and the road was reopened at 3:17 PM.

Meanwhile, a minor crash involving two vehicles at the intersection of Kennedy Rd and Georges Dr in Napier was reported shortly before 4:15 PM on Wednesday. The temporary roundabout in place during the upgrade of traffic lights at the site was not affected by the incident, and the highway remained open after the crash.

These multiple incidents within such a short time frame have sparked discussions about the need for increased road safety measures, better traffic control systems, and improved emergency response coordination in the region. Local authorities are likely to review the events and consider any necessary changes to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

As the community continues to process the events, the focus remains on the injured individuals and their recovery, as well as the broader implications for road safety across Hawke’s Bay.