Three people have died and another two are seriously injured following a two-vehicle crash near Geraldine this afternoon.
Emergency services were called to the scene, at the intersection of State Highway 79 and Kennedy Rd, about 3.15pm.
The vehicles – a four-wheel-drive and a people-mover – were travelling in opposite directions when the crash occurred, Inspector Vicki Walker said in a statement this evening.
“The vehicles have collided and the investigation will focus on exactly how that occurred.”
The three who died were in the people-mover, Insp Walker said. Another person travelling with them was critically injured.
The driver of the four-wheel-drive, the sole occupant of that vehicle, was seriously injured.
Both of the survivors were airlifted to Christchurch Hospital.
“Losing so many lives at once is shocking and our hearts go out to those involved,” Insp Walker said.
The deceased were part of a group visiting the district, and members of that group were following behind the vehicle at the time of the crash.
“We’re wrapping support around them and will be speaking with them to help establish what occurred.
“Incidents like this are hard on everyone involved, and our communities too."
The highway remains closed this evening and diversions are in place.
