Police in Canterbury are reminding drivers about basic road rules, following a spate of serious accidents.

Two people died as a result of a crash early this morning, when a car hit a tree on Brougham Street in central Christchurch.

The driver was dead when police arrived at the scene, and the passenger died later in hospital.

There were two other serious crashes, including one in which a Hyundai Accent lost control after changing lanes, this also happened on Brougham Street.

Police say the driver had no seat belt on, and now has serious head and chest injuries.

Another driver is critical after crashing into a ditch near Tai Tapu.

Police are appealing for people to drive to the conditions, wear seat belts, and allow themselves enough time to make good decisions.