News
State Highway 1 near Dacre has reopened after a fatal crash that claimed one life this morning.
Police were called to the two-vehicle crash near Kerr Road at around 8.10am. One person was found dead at the scene.
The highway remained closed in both directions for most of the day while the Serious Crash Unit conducted their scene examination. The road reopened at 4pm, allowing traffic to flow freely again.
The crash occurred on the Edendale Woodlands Highway section of State Highway 1, a busy route connecting Invercargill with other parts of Southland and beyond.
Emergency services attended the scene throughout the day. Police have not yet released details about the circumstances of the crash or the identity of the deceased person.
The closure caused significant disruption to traffic flows, with motorists forced to find alternative routes between Invercargill and northern destinations.
State Highway 1 is a vital transport link for the region, carrying both local traffic and vehicles travelling longer distances through Southland.
Police investigations into the cause of the crash are continuing. The Serious Crash Unit's examination of the scene was completed by 4pm, allowing the highway to reopen safely.
This latest fatality adds to New Zealand's road toll, highlighting ongoing concerns about road safety on the country's highways.
Motorists are reminded to drive carefully and adjust their speed to road conditions, particularly during busy morning traffic periods when visibility and road conditions can change rapidly.
Anyone who witnessed the crash or has information that could assist police is encouraged to contact them.
