All lanes have reopened on State Highway 1 north of Auckland through the Brynderwyn Hills following a serious crash this morning.
Two people - one with critical injuries - were taken to Whangārei Hospital for treatment after a car and a fully laden fuel tanker collided shortly after 6.30am.
SH1 was expected to be closed until 5pm this afternoon as the fuel had to be removed from the tanker before it could be shifted off the road.
Detours were put in place but were unsuitable for heavy vehicles, causing dozens of trucks to park up until the road was reopened, the New Zealand Transport Agency said.
Traffic is backed up in the area and motorists have been advised to exercise caution and drive to the conditions.
Motorists have been thanked for their patience following the disruption.
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