A vehicle has crashed into the side of the Rakaia River Bridge in South Canterbury, causing major traffic issues for those travelling on State Highway 1.
A police spokesman said the crash happened at about 11.10am.
Both lanes of the bridge were closed for about two hours.
The bridge reopened shortly after 1pm under stop/go management but significant delays remain.
There were no injuries reported.The crash appeared to involve a tractor towing ploughing equipment.
The only other route across the Rakaia River is the bridge at Rakaia Gorge, near Mount Hutt about 30 minutes drive away.
That bridge includes a one lane portion, further slowing traffic.
Waka Kotahi is advising people to delay their travel.
