A person has died and another is seriously injured following a two-vehicle crash in Glenorchy early this morning. Emergency services were called to Glenorchy-Routeburn Road shortly after 4.41am, where one person was confirmed dead at the scene.
The road remains partially blocked, with no available detours, and is only opening intermittently. Police, including the Serious Crash Unit, are investigating the circumstances of the incident.
In the wake of this latest tragedy, Southern District Police have issued a strong plea to drivers as the region prepares for a busy travel period linked to Waitangi Weekend and the Burt Munro Challenge.
Inspector Sarah Thorn, District Road Policing Manager, said: “Southern District Police are urging all road users to slow down, stay alert and make safe choices as traffic volumes increase across the region over the coming week.”
The Glenorchy crash follows two other fatal accidents in the Southern District between Friday morning and Sunday morning — one near Queenstown and one in the Dunedin area. Police also responded to several other serious injury crashes during the same period.
“There are quite simply too many crashes happening on our roads, and the consequences can be devastating,” said Inspector Thorn.
She acknowledged the challenging work police and emergency responders face at such scenes, adding: “They provide critical care, secure scenes and conduct thorough investigations to understand what has happened. Their work is vital to ensure families receive the care, answers and support they deserve when faced with the death or serious injury of a loved one.”
While investigations into recent crashes continue, police are reinforcing key road safety messages. Drivers are being reminded to wear seatbelts, stick to speed limits, stay focused and avoid driving impaired or fatigued.
Traffic is expected to rise significantly with the annual Burt Munro Challenge taking place in Invercargill from 4 to 8 February. Thousands of motorcyclists and visitors are expected to attend the event, increasing pressure on the roads across the region.
Police will have increased visibility during this time, with dedicated Road Policing teams, checkpoints, and fatigue stops set up across the district.
“Our focus is on prevention,” said Inspector Thorn. “We want everyone to arrive safely at their destination, enjoy the events they are travelling to, and make it home safely.”
Motorists are encouraged to report dangerous driving by calling 111 in emergencies or 105 for non-urgent concerns.