State Highway 8 is closed at Prohibition Rd, about 6km south of the turn-off to Lake Ōhau. Photo: Nick Duff

One person has died and another is in critical condition following a crash in Omarama this morning.

Two patients were flown to Dunedin Hospital, one critical and the other moderate, police said.

Emergency services responded to the two-vehicle crash on State Highway 8 that occurred at about 10.19am.

The road remains closed while the Serious Crash Unit complete a scene examination.

"The road is currently blocked. Motorists are advised to avoid the area and expect delays."

Fire and Emergency shift manager Bailey Wells earlier said multiple crews from Twizel, Ōmarama and Otematata responded to the vehicle collision on Twizel-Ōmarama Rd in the Waitaki district.

A Hato Hone St John spokesperson said crews were notified of the crash on Twizel-Ōmarama Rd at 10.19am.

Two helicopters, a first response unit, a prime doctor and two ambulances were on the scene.

A reporter at the scene said a steady stream of vehicles had turned around at the blockade but some were waiting it out. 

- NZ Herald and ODT Online