At least 15 individuals sustained injuries when a bus carrying Tongan workers overturned near Broadlands, situated between Rotorua and Taupō. The incident occurred around 7:30 AM on Sunday at the junction of Broadlands Road and Allen Road, with authorities confirming that the bus was the sole vehicle involved in the crash.
By 10 AM, emergency services had airlifted at least 10 of the injured to various hospitals. Among them, three individuals were reported to have serious injuries, while two sustained moderate injuries. Five others were treated for minor injuries.
The bus was transporting 30 Recognised Seasonal Employer (RSE) workers from the Pacific who had just arrived in New Zealand earlier that day. They were en route to Hawke’s Bay to begin employment with Mr Apple, a local company. Immigration New Zealand’s Pacific manager, Mike Sorensen, noted that 13 of the workers were taken to local hospitals for treatment, with some expected to be discharged later that day and transported to their place of work.
Following the accident, 17 workers continued on to Hawke’s Bay without delay. Gary Jones, representing Mr Apple, mentioned that despite the incident, a total of 21 workers were anticipated to reach their destination that Sunday night. Upon arrival, they would be welcomed with warm meals and support from staff, including access to a physiotherapist.
To ensure the well-being of the workers, additional support from District Health and Pacific Health professionals, along with counselors, would be provided. Sorensen emphasized that Immigration New Zealand remains committed to assisting those affected.
While police have indicated that the road will remain closed for a significant time due to the ongoing investigations, diversions have been established at Ohaaki Road and Vaile Road.
This accident marks the second serious incident involving RSE workers in the past three months, with a previous tragedy occurring in August where three workers lost their lives on State Highway One south of Auckland.
Despite the challenges faced, the timely response from medical personnel and the proactive measures taken by employers to support the workers illustrate a community coming together in a time of need. This responsiveness offers hope and reassurance to those impacted by the situation.
Leave a comment