A person has died after a fiery serious crash involving two trucks on State Highway 1 in North Canterbury.
The collision in Parnassus Rd (SH1), near McPhersons Stream Bridge near Spotswood, in the Hurunui District, was reported to emergency services at 8.33am today.
A police spokesperson said initial indications showed there were serious injuries and "motorists should avoid the area".
In a statement tonight, police confirmed that one person has since died.
The Serious Crash Unit and Commercial Vehicle Safety Team have conducted scene examinations.
Fire and Emergency NZ said two trucks were involved in the crash.
"One person was trapped in the burning truck, but has since been removed," a spokesperson said.
Crews from the Cheviot, Scargill, Culverden and Hurunui stations attended and one truck was in flames by the time they arrived.
Hato Hone St John said two helicopters and two ambulances also responded.
The road remained closed tonight while the vehicles were removed from the scene.
The NZ Transport Agency/Waka Kotahi said SH1 is closed between Cheviot and Spotswood. Diversions are in place.
Southbound traffic should take the detour from SH1 via Waiau West Rd at Spotswood, then turn left onto Leamington Rd, left onto Munro Rd, and right onto Ward Rd through to Cheviot. The reverse applies for northbound traffic.
"The detour route is not suitable for heavy vehicles. Heavy vehicles should use Leader Road East, Rotherham Rd and State Highway 7," NZTA said.
