Three people are dead and two other seriously injured following a two-vehicle head-on crash near Geraldine that has closed a major state highway.
Police rushed to the scene about 3.15pm, along with 16 fire crew members and two rescue helicopters.
The vehicles – a four-wheel-drive and a people-mover – were travelling in opposite directions when the crash occurred, Aoraki Area Commander Inspector Vicki Walker said.
”The vehicles have collided and the investigation will focus on exactly how that occurred.
”Three of the deceased were travelling in the people-mover, Inspector Walker said. Another person travelling with them was critically injured.
The driver from the four-wheel-drive, the sole occupant of that vehicle, was seriously injured. Both of the surviving crash victims have been airlifted to Christchurch Hospital.
”Losing so many lives at once is shocking and our hearts go out to those involved,” Walker said.
The deceased were part of a group visiting the district, and members of that group were following behind the vehicle at the time of the crash.
”We’re wrapping support around them and will be speaking with them to help establish what occurred.
”Incidents like this are hard on everyone involved, and our communities too.
”While the investigation is progressing, we’re making sure there is support in place for those involved, their families, and our staff who have attended the scene.
”We would like to thank all the first responders and agencies like Victim Support who are assisting those affected by today’s events.”
State Highway 79 is closed between Tiplady Rd and Kennedy Rd, while emergency services respond to the incident.
Diversions are in place and motorists should expect delays.
