Two people were airlifted to Christchurch Hospital in a serious condition, after a crash which left eight people injured on the West Coast this afternoon.
Police said they were notified of the multi-vehicle crash south of Hokitika, which closed State Highway 6, about 1.10pm.
The crash was at the intersection of SH6 and Donoghues Rd.
Hato Hone St John said multiple vehicles, including three helicopters, attended and confirmed eight people were injured.
Two had serious injuries and were airlifted to Christchurch Hospital, while another one was airlifted to Greymouth Hospital in a serious condition.
A fourth seriously injured was taken by ambulance to Greymouth Hospital.
Another two were moderately injured, and two suffered minor injuries, all of whom were taken to Greymouth Hospital.
The Serious Crash Unit has been advised and the road was expected to be blocked for some time while emergency services worked at the scene.
NZTA said in an update at 4pm the road remained closed.
It added the road was likely to remain closed well into the evening.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area where possible and expect delays.
