A person has died and sections of two state highways are closed following crashes in the lower North Island this afternoon.
Police said they were alerted to a two-vehicle crash on State Highway 3 south-east of Sanson around 12pm.
The driver of a ute died at the scene following a collision with a truck.
Another person sustained minor injuries in the crash.
Hato Hone St John told 1News it responded with one ambulance and one rapid response vehicle after being notified of the crash around 11.56am.
One patient was assessed and treated at the scene.
SH3 between Sanson and Stewart roads remains closed while the serious crash unit carries out a scene examination.
Diversions are in place and motorists have been advised to expect delays.
Support is being provided to those involved.
It was followed by a second two-vehicle crash which injured three people – one critically – on SH2 near Dannevirke.
Police said emergency services were called to the scene around 1.40pm.
Hato Hone St John said they were alerted to the crash on Laws Rd at 1.35pm.
St John responded with two ambulances, one rapid response vehicle, one first response unit, one manager and two helicopters.
One person was critically injured in the crash, while another sustained serious injuries.
A third person received minor injuries.
Two people were airlifted to Palmerston North Hospital.
The road is blocked while emergency services work at the scene.
"Motorists are advised to follow diversions and expect delays."
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