Highway reopens after fatal crash near Roxburgh

Traffic backed up at the accident scene. Photo: Julie Asher
Traffic backed up at the accident scene. Photo: Julie Asher

A section of State Highway 8 near Roxburgh has reopened this evening after a fatal crash closed the road for much of the day. 

Police were alerted to the crash involving a truck and a car between Roxburgh and Millers Flat about 11.15am.

"Sadly, one person was located deceased at the scene," police said in a statement.

There were no other injuries reported in the crash.

The highway was closed to allow a a scene examination, police said.

In an update shortly before 7pm, NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi (NZTA) advised the road had reopened.

A witness said the crash happened outside the Transworld Roxburgh Depot.

Transworld Roxburgh director Geoff Smith said the accident did not involve Transworld Roxburgh's vehicles or employees.

"It was only coincidence that it was outside the gate to the entrance to our property"

Transworld staff did provide assistance to the victims until first responders arrived, he said.

NZTA had earlier warned rugby fans to plan ahead for extra traffic and potential delays as thousands descend on Dunedin for the test match between the All Blacks and France tomorrow.

“A lot of people will be travelling to the city ahead of the big match, particularly on State Highway 1 from Christchurch, and with it also being school holidays, the roads are going to be busy," NZTA Otago journey manager Nicole Felts said.

Motorists were advised to be aware of weather forecasts and check out the Journey Planner site to learn of any state highway closures or restrictions.

"It looks at this stage like there might be some rain about Dunedin leading into match day.

"And at this time of year, there’s always a chance of snow, ice, or flooding from heavy rain causing disruption on roads leading to Dunedin.”