Heavy snow on SH5 - people trapped in cars

Heavy snow falls have caused the closure of the Napier-Taupo Highway (State Highway 5), trapping dozens of people in their vehicles. Taupo Civil Defence have declared a state of emergency in the area.

 

Police are in the process of rescuing trapped road users, with the assistance of the Taupo 4WD club. Rescued people are being ferried to the Rangitaiki Tavern, from where they are being bussed to a welfare centre in Taupo.

 

So far approximately seventy people have been safely dropped off at the welfare centre, which has been set up in the Taupo Events Centre. Another 300 passengers have been transported back to Napier, who were closer to the Napier side of the highway.

 

Heavy snow is making access difficult. Extra machinery, including snow-ploughs, is being despatched to the road to assist with the rescue effort.

 

No serious casualties have been reported.

 

Powerlines are reported to be down near the summit of the road, making access difficult.

 

Civil Defence staff are confident that all trapped road users will be rescued and the road will be cleared.

 

Public are advised to stay clear of the area until further notice. If anyone has concern that a loved one may have been travelling on the stretch of road they are advised to call the welfare centre in Taupo on 0274 579 686.