A spokesperson for NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said the northbound lane of SH51 from Awatoto Rd would be closed for several hours.
A detour for motorists was in place along Te Awa Ave and right on to SH51/Ellison St, but southbound traffic was not disrupted, although about 150m of the wire, centreline barrier approaching the crash site was damaged.
A longtime resident, whose property backs on to the railway track and highway, said they had been familiar with crashes in the area over many years, but only a few since the installation of the wire barrier.
He said he heard a noise like a vehicle bouncing along the rumble strips and then the crash.
The NZTA said a full closure of SH51 was likely when the truck was recovered from the side of the road, and possibly for repairs to the median strip.
“Expect delays and take care,” motorists were warned.