UPDATED: 9.52PM Two people are dead and five others have been injured in a two-car smash near Twizel in the South Island tonight.

The crash happened on the Omarama side of the canal bridge on Twizel-Omarama Rd, State Highway 8, shortly before 7pm.

Police have confirmed two people died at the scene of the crash.

Five other people suffered moderate to serious injuries.

The road is closed and there are no detours in place.

Police advise motorists to check the New Zealand Transport Agency website for further updates.

The police serious crash unit is on its way from Dunedin. A crash investigation will be carried out.

St John ambulance spokesman Ian Henderson said two patients had serious injuries.

They would be flown by rescue helicopters to Dunedin Hospital.

Two others with moderate injuries are being flown in a second chopper to Christchurch, and a fifth patient is being taken by road to Timaru Hospital.

Police said no further details about the crash would be released tonight, including any details about the deceased.