Crash driver had been drinking, police say

The driver of a car which crashed, injuring eight people, in North Otago at the weekend held a learner’s licence and had been drinking, police allege.

Senior Sergeant Jason McCoy said the 25-year-old female was driving, when the car rolled on to its roof, near Papakaio, about 3.10am on Sunday.

Emergency services were called to the scene near the intersection of State Highway 83 and Horse Gully Rd, and two people were flown to Dunedin Hospital.

Other occupants were taken to Oamaru Hospital, and all injuries ranged from serious to minor.

‘‘This could have been a lot worse than it was. We need to make sure we are planning a safe way home from these parties or events,’’ Snr Sgt McCoy said.

Police were unable to say what type of vehicle it was and inquiries into the crash were ongoing.

A Fire and New Zealand (Fenz) spokesman said fire crews from Oamaru, Duntroon and Kurow attended the scene.