The NZ Transport Agency (NZTA) is urging motorists to always be alert when driving on highways following recent fatal crashes.
A driver was killed on Thursday when a car and bus collided on State Highway 6 just south of Kingston.
It was the second fatal crash in the area in the last two weeks.
NZTA senior safety engineer Roy Johnston said
"every death on our roads is a tragedy and the NZ Transport Agency is committed to reducing deaths and serious injuries on our roads.''
Recent investments on the highway, which links Otago and Southland have included extra safety barriers, curve warning signs and rumble strips.
The work was funded through the NZTA's Visiting Drivers Project and Boost safety programme.
However, while the improvements would help reduce the number of crashes in the area, it would not eliminate them.
"There is still the potential for driver mistakes, vehicle issues, road factors and speeds to result in serious crashes.
"We continue to remind people to drive to the conditions through our road safety campaigns, signage and collaborative work with other agencies ... and to advise people never to pass unless they have a clear long view ahead and where there are no no-passing yellow lines on the highway.''
Police said investigations were continuing into Thursday's fatal crash. Inquiries were still being made to identify the man killed in the accident and to notify his next of kin.
One of those injured in the crash remains in a critical condition.
Witnesses who might have information which could help police in their investigation are asked to contact the Queenstown Police Station.
