A driver and passengers are in a critical condition following a crash in Ōtaki late this afternoon.
Emergency services were called to the crash near the Ōtaki River Bridge at 2.50pm. Four people were injured.
The driver of the northbound car has been flown to Wellington Hospital with critical injuries.
One passenger in the northbound car has been taken to Palmerston North Hospital via helicopter with critical injuries and another passenger taken via ambulance with serious injuries.
The driver of the southbound car involved has also been taken to Palmerston North Hospital via ambulance in a serious condition.
The Serious Crash Unit is investigating.
Traffic has built up in the area and Police would like to thank motorists for their patience while the road was closed.
NOTE: State Highway One has now reopened.
