Serious crash closes State Highway 1 south of Levin (SH1 now OPEN)
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi | 29 May 2026 1:03pm | Wellington
1pm
State Highway 1 has reopened near Manakau following a serious crash earlier today.
Police have completed their crash investigation, and contractors have cleared debris and inspected the site to ensure it is safe for traffic.
While the highway is open in both directions, ongoing travel delays can be expected until queued traffic clears and congestion eases. Traffic queues are significant and will take time to clear.
Drivers are urged to be patient and travel with care through the area.
10:10 am
State Highway 1 is expected to remain closed for several more hours following a serious crash at the Manakau North Rail Overbridge earlier today.
The highway remains closed while the Police Serious Crash Unit investigates the crash.
The overbridge will also be inspected for damage to ensure its safe for traffic.
Drivers must continue to avoid the area, delay their travel, or use an alternative route. No immediate local road detours are available, and significant delays can be expected until the incident is resolved and the highway is reopened.
Traffic travelling between Wellington and Palmerston North can go via SH2 Wairarapa and SH3 Te Ahu a Turanga
Updates on the highway’s status can be checked online. Road users are encouraged to check road conditions before they travel.
7:25 am
State Highway 1 is currently closed at the Manakau North Rail Overbridge following a serious crash this morning.
The incident, involving a truck, was reported around 6:30 am. Information from Police is that three vehicles were involved and three people have been injured.
Drivers can expect ongoing delays until the incident is resolved and the crash site is cleared. No adjacent local road detours are available, and there is no estimate for when the highway will reopen.
Drivers must avoid the area, delay their travel, or consider using an alternative route.
Updates on the highway’s status can be checked online. Road users are encouraged to check road conditions before they travel.