New Plymouth candidate apologises for causing car and truck crash

Independent Taranaki candidate Rusty Kane has apologised after admitting he was at fault in a collision with a logging truck. The crash occurred on Tuesday, 13 October, at the intersection of Elliot and Leach streets in New Plymouth. Kane and his passenger, a campaign staffer, escaped the accident without injury.

Kane stated that after reviewing a police report and video footage, it was clear he had been driving in the wrong lane. He described the moment as frightening, saying, "This is the scariest thing I’ve ever experienced". The candidate noted that the truck hit the rear of his SUV and pushed the vehicle down Elliott Street.

Police confirmed that an infringement notice was issued to one person for failing to comply with directional arrows. Kane expressed his apologies to the truck driver and the trucking company, Total Log Haulage. The owner of the Waverley-based company, Chris Purcell, declined to comment, noting that the police were dealing with the matter.

Kane, who has unsuccessfully contested public office 17 times over 30 years, has returned to his campaign. He thanked staff at a nearby McDonald's for checking on the well-being of those involved.

Where reports differ

• One report identifies the vehicle as an SUV, while another refers to it as a car

Compiled from reports by The Post, RNZ, NZ Herald and 1News.