A driver jumped clear from the cab of his truck before it went over a bank on the Napier/Taihape Road today.

Pictures taken by the Lowe Corporation Rescue Helicopter pilots show the damage the truck sustained in the crash.

The accident was near Kuripapango, about 60km east of Waiouru, at about 11.30am, says a rescue helicopter spokesperson.

The driver, aged in his 50s, sustained multiple injuries which are believed to have happened when he struck the road as he jumped clear before the truck struck a steep band and rolled.

He was flown to Hawke's Bay Hospital where he was later reported to be in a critical condition.

Meanwhile, Tauranga Police are uncertain of the cause of the roll-over of fully laden logging truck on SH36 yesterday afternoon.

The crash forced the road to be closed for several hours while the crash scene was cleared.

Emergency services had to bring in a crane to clear the logs spilled onto the highway, and a heavy recovery vehicle was required for the truck and trailer.

Police are still investigating the cause of a crash on SH35 yesterday afternoon. Photo: Ryan Wood.

The highway was limited to one lane after the accident but the section between Oropi and Taumata roads was closed completely for nearly four hours from about 5pm until 8.47pm.

Police are still investigating the cause.