Truck driver lucky to survive crash

Police say a log truck driver was lucky to survive a crash in which his vehicle ended up in the Buller River earlier today.

Sergeant Rob Crawford said the truck was travelling south towards Murchison when it failed to take a right hand bend, went through a fence, across a paddock and over a 30 metre bank into the river.

The driver was stuck in the cab, which was partially submerged, for two hours before being rescued.

The Fire Service had to cut the man from the wreck.

Emergency services required the assistance of a river rafting company and jet boat operator to reach the crashed truck.

The accident occurred about 10am on SH6 north of Murchison at Doctor's Creek.

Police, fire, ambulance, river rafting crews and a jet boat have been involved in the rescue.

The driver has been flown to Nelson Hospital by rescue helicopter.

An investigation is under way to establish the cause of the crash and emergency services are assisting with the recovery of the truck.

SH6 remains restricted to one lane and motorists can expect some delays.

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