The driver of a car involved in a six-vehicle crash in Central Otago has been taken to hospital with suspected neck injuries.
Emergency services were alerted about 7.15am to the crash just west of Roaring Meg on Kawarau Gorge Road.
Police said a heavy motor vehicle had come to the end of a slow-vehicle bay, and a van stopped suddenly to let it out.
The two vehicles continued on, but six following vehicles collided in nose-to-tails.
The injured man was in the last of those six vehicles, a ute, and had to be cut from his vehicle.
He was initially treated by ambulance staff at the scene and then taken to Dunstan Hospital with suspected neck injuries.
His condition was thought to be moderate to serious.
Other people involved received minor bumps and bruises.
The road was down to one lane for a time with the assistance of Fire and Emergency NZ, and roading contractors.
Four vehicles were towed from the scene.
The road conditions at the time were good, with no ice on the road.
Police said this type of crash was a reminder for motorists to ensure they were aware of their following distances, as it appeared driving too closely has been a contributing factor.
Road users should remember the "two-second rule" - ensuring a minimum of two seconds between your vehicle and the one in front.
