"One fatality following serious crash - SH1 Waimate highway - Canterbury"

Canterbury Police can confirm that one person has been confirmed as deceased at the scene of a serious crash involving two vehicles which is reported to have occurred shortly after 2.45pm this afternoon.

The death has been referred to the Coroner who will determine the cause of death.

No details of the deceased will be released until formal identification and the process to inform next of kin have been completed.

One person is in a critical condition and is being taken to Christchurch Hospital by helicopter.

Another person in a critical condition has been taken to Timaru Hospital.

Three other people have been taken to Timaru Hospital with serious injuries.

Diversions are in place and SH1 will remain closed south of St Andrews for at least the next five hours while Canterbury Police Serious Crash Unit complete a scene examination.

Canterbury Police urge the public to avoid the area where possible and be patient as delays are likely.

ENDS

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