A Canterbury state highway was closed and one person has been critically injured after a milk tanker caught fire following a serious crash with a ute this morning.
Police were called to the crash on State Highway 73 in Kirwee, near Ansons Rd west of Darfield, about 8am on Monday.
The milk tanker caught fire after the crash and one person has been airlifted to hospital with critical injuries.
Plumes of smoke could be seen pouring from the front of the milk tanker after the crash.
St John confirmed one person was flown to Christchurch Hospital in a critical condition.
A St John first response vehicle, two rapid response units, an ambulance and a helicopter were sent to the scene.
Fonterra confirmed a contractor driving a milk tanker was involved in the crash.
A spokesperson said the milk tanker driver was not badly injured.
Fire and Emergency NZ said one person was trapped in the ute while the tanker was on fire.
Crews had extinguished the blaze and freed the person from the ute by 8.30am, the spokesperson said.
A helicopter took the person to hospital.
NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi said SH73 was reopened about 1.45pm.
"SH73 is open with a 50km/h temporary speed restriction in place, please drive with care."
A police spokesperson said the Serious Crash Unit was advised.
"Motorists are advised to avoid the area where possible and to expect delays."
-Allied Media
