Emergency services, including a helicopter, are responding to a serious crash involving a truck and a ute west of Christchurch this morning.

Fire and Emergency NZ said they were notified just after 8am of a crash involving two vehicles on West Coast Rd, State Highway 73, near Kirwee.

Shift manager Lyn Crossan said one of the vehicles is on fire.

“Initial indicators are there are serious injuries,” a police spokeswoman said.

“The Serious Crash Unit have been advised and the road is expected to remain closed for some time, while emergency services work at the scene.”

Crews from Darfield and Kirwee have arrived at the scene, along with police and Hato Hone St John.

A spokesman for St John said they have sent a first response unit, an ambulance, two rapid response vehicles, and a helicopter.

The road has been blocked off while emergency services respond to the crash. Photo / Jazlyn Whales

“One patient is being transported to Christchurch Hospital (by helicopter) in a critical condition,” the spokesman said.

The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) say a serious crash has closed SH73 at Kirwee, west of Ansons Rd.

Emergency services are responding to a serious crash involving a truck and a ute near Kirwee, west of Christchurch, this morning. Image / Google Maps

Motorists are advised to avoid the area where possible and to expect delays.