Motorcyclist dead after Rakaia River bridge crash

A motorcyclist is dead after being involved in a crash with a truck in Canterbury this morning.

The crash occurred on State Highway 1 on the Rakaia River bridge, south of Christchurch, about 9.45am.

Police initially said one person was in a serious condition but in an update around 1.30pm they advised the motorcyclist had been killed. 

The highway is closed while the Serious Crash Unit examines the scene.

There is a detour inland via the Rakaia Gorge, and traffic volumes are reportedly heavy and there are lengthy delays.

The death brings the holiday weekend road toll to eight.

Motorists faced delays in the Rakaia Gorge, which was being used as a detour route following a...
Motorists faced delays in the Rakaia Gorge, which was being used as a detour route following a crash on State Highway 1 on Monday morning. Photo and video: John Cosgrove
In another incident in Canterbury this morning, a pedestrian has been critically injured after being hit by a truck on SH1 in Kaiapoi, north of Christchurch.

 

 

 

Local trusted journalism matters - now more than ever

As the Covid-19 pandemic brings the world into uncharted waters, Star Media journalists and photographers continue to report local stories that matter everyday - yours.

For more than 152 years our journalists have provided Cantabrians with local news that can be trusted. It’s more important now than ever to keep Cantabrians connected.

As our advertising has fallen during the pandemic, support from you our reader is crucial.

You can help us continue to provide local news you can trust simply by becoming a supporter.

Become a Supporter