The drivers of two vehicles were airlifted to Oamaru and Dunedin Hospitals with serious injuries after a head-on crash on State Highway 1 at the southern entrance to Maheno.
Senior Constable Darrin Low from Hampden said the men suffered serious injuries in the smash, which involved a utility towing a trailer, and a four-wheel-drive vehicle.
State Highway 1 was closed in both directions between 8.30am and 11am yesterday, following the crash.
Snr Const Low said inquiries were continuing. He added it was a "possibility" alcohol was a factor.
"The southbound four-wheel-drive has lost control on the corner, crossed the centre line and collided head on with the northbound ute and trailer."
The driver of the ute was freed from his vehicle by members of the Oamaru, Kakanui and Weston Fire Brigades.