Emergency services in Gisborne are amazed a man escaped death on Friday night when his car was cut into three pieces when it was struck by a fully-loaded truck and trailer unit.
The incident happened shortly before midnight on State Highway 2 at Waerengaahika, north of Gisborne.
Police, fire and ambulance officers say the man, believed to be in his 30s, is extremely lucky to be alive.
He is in hospital with what are described as multiple serious injuries.
The truck and trailer unit also spilled a full load of grapes on the road, making it difficult for emergency personnel to stay on their feet.
The truck driver was unhurt.
