A person has been critically injured in a fiery crash between a milk tanker and ute that closed a state highway in Canterbury this morning.
Emergency services were called to the scene, on State Highway 73 between Kirwee and Darfield, about 8am.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand said their personnel helped remove a person trapped in the ute and put out a fire in the cab of the tanker.
St John said one person had been flown to Christchurch Hospital in a critical condition.
Fonterra has confirmed a contractor driving a milk tanker was involved in the crash.
A spokesperson said the tanker driver was not badly injured.
Police said the serious crash unit had been advised.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said SH73 was closed between Kirwee and Creyke Rd, and a detour was available via Tramway and Creyke Rds.
The road was expected to remain closed for some time.
