A police spokesperson confirmed to Newshub the tanker is leaking and the road is expected to remain closed for several hours.
Road users are advised to avoid the area, delay their journey, or follow the directions of emergency services on site.
It’s said the tanker was carrying 32,000 litres of fuel and had been travelling to Palmerston North from Seaview in Lower Hutt. The remaining fuel will be decanted into another tanker.
Speaking to Newshub at the scene, Levin Senior Sergeant Sam Gilpin said that “unfortunately, the vehicle is leaking petrol” and FENZ are attempting to “resolve the situation”.
“It requires specialist equipment to assist with cleaning up the site and removing the vehicle,” he added.
“It’s going to be a long, drawn-out operation – the road will obviously not be open until it’s clear and safe for motorists to drive through.”
He confirmed there were no injuries and the Serious Crash Unit is not involved. Motorists are being redirected to State Highway 57.