Speed and alcohol are believed to have contributed to a fatal crash in Waikouaiti, north of Dunedin.
The Otago Daily Times understands the surviving 29-year-old man, arrested after the crash late last night, is under police guard after attempting to leave Dunedin Hospital.
Emergency services were called to the crash at the intersection of State Highway 1 and Thomas St about 11.20pm, where one person died at the scene, police confirmed today.
No other vehicles were involved.
A Fire and Emergency New Zealand spokesman said crews from Palmerston, Waikouaiti and Willowbank stations attended the crash, and worked to get two people free from the wreckage.
A Hato Hone St John spokeswoman said an ambulance, a Prime unit, a rapid response vehicle, a manager and a helicopter were sent to the scene.
One patient was airlifted in a critical condition last night to Dunedin Hospital, the spokeswoman said.
Police say the serious crash unit is investigating.
The road was being resealed where the crash happened.
As of late this morning, part of SH1 remained down to one lane, operating under stop/go traffic management.
Police asked road users to avoid the area if possible or to expect delays.
