Six Injured in Three Car Crash as SH1 Reopens to Traffic

6:55am Update: Following a prior crash, State Highway 1 is now open with a 50km/h temporary speed restriction in place. Road users are advised to take extra care when travelling along this route. It re-opened this morning at 2:50AM.

Due to a crash, the road is closed south of Baird Road. Please follow the detour and take extra care along this route.

A major traffic accident involving three vehicles has resulted in the closure of the Edendale Woodlands Highway. The collision occurred at approximately 6:11 PM, prompting a swift response from emergency services.

The Serious Crash Unit has been notified and is currently investigating the scene. Due to the severity of the crash, the highway remains closed south of Baird Road on State Highway 1 (SH1) near Dacre. The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) has advised motorists to follow the designated detour routes to avoid the affected area.

St John Ambulance services dispatched three ambulances, one operations manager, and a helicopter to the scene. A spokesperson for St John confirmed that six people were injured in varying types. One person in critical condition was airlifted to Dunedin Hospital for urgent medical treatment. Additionally, three individuals with moderate injuries were transported to Southern Hospital. Two others sustained minor injuries and were assessed and treated at the scene.

Motorists are urged to exercise caution and adhere to the detour instructions provided by the NZTA. Updates on the road closure and traffic conditions are being posted on the NZTA’s official X (Twitter) page.

The police and emergency services are continuing their work to clear the site and ensure the safety of all involved. Further details will be released as the investigation progresses.

Detour Route:

• Southbound Traffic:
  • Turn right onto State Highway 98 (Lorne-Dacre Rd)
  • Turn left onto Grove Bush-Woodlands Rd
  • Rejoin State Highway 1
• Northbound Traffic:
  • Reverse the above route

This detour is suitable for all vehicles.