Three people have been hospitalised following the crashes in Southland and Whitianga. Photo: 123RF
Two people have been airlifted to hospital, following separate crashes in Southland and Whitianga.
Four people were injured in a serious crash north-east of Invercargill, which has blocked the Edendale Woodlands Highway.
One is in a serious condition.
Traffic is being diverted via St Ronan's Road, which is not suitable for heavy traffic.
Police are advising motorists to avoid the area if possible, and to expect delays.
In the North Island, police were called to a one-vehicle crash involving a motorbike on Cook Drive, Whitianga, around 6.40pm.
One person was transported to hospital via helicopter in a critical condition.
Cook Drive is closed while the Serious Crash Unit investigates.