Two people are dead after a serious crash involving a truck and several other vehicles on State Highway 1 near Rakaia, south of Christchurch.
Police were called to reports of a truck rolling about 8.50am and arrived at the scene soon after.
Two people were killed in the crash and seven other people recieved a range of injuries, police said.
The truck involved in the serious crash on State Highway 1 near Rakaia ended up off the road and near railway line. Photo / Bridget Shimmin
St John was called at 8.45am, and five ambulances and a helicopter were sent to crash, a spokeswoman said.
Three fire appliances from Rakaia and Dunsandel were in attendance, and ambulances are also at the scene.
The road is closed. Motorists are advised to expect delays and avoid the area if possible.
It is the second major crash this weekend. One person was taken to hospital in a serious condition and two others are moderately injured following a two-car crash in Napier.
Emergency services were called to State Highway 2 at the intersection of Kaimata Road in Bay View just before 4pm yesterday.Â
A motorcyclist was also seriously injured after a hit and run in Whanganui last night.Â
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