Updated 7pm:
A fatal road accident involving two vehicles took place on Waihola Highway in the Clarendon area of the Clutha District. The police have confirmed that sadly, one person lost their life in this incident.
In addition to the fatality, two other individuals were affected by the crash. They were provided immediate medical attention and subsequently transported to Dunedin Hospital. One of them was in a moderate condition while the other sustained minor injuries.
Following the accident, the Waihola Highway was temporarily closed to traffic and then open to South bound traffic with STOP/Go in place.
Police expect the road to be cleared and reopened to the public shortly.
As of now, police are actively investigating to understand the precise circumstances that led to the crash. In a statement, a spokesperson for St John detailed the emergency response to the incident. They mentioned that their team had dispatched a range of emergency services to the site, including a helicopter, an ambulance, and a first response unit. These teams worked together to treat the injured persons and ensure they were promptly taken to the hospital for further care.
At 2:25 PM, there was a serious crash on State Highway 1 (SH1) in Clarendon, Otago. Due to this, traffic conditions have been updated:
For drivers heading southbound (SB), the road is now open, but with a STOP/GO system in place to manage the traffic flow. However, for those going northbound (NB), the road is still closed between Circle Hill Road and Phosphate Road. There is a detour route set up for NB drivers. This route involves Circle Hill Road, Barnes Road, Fort Hill Road, Cullen Road, Berwick Road, and then back onto Phosphate Road, leading to SH1. Drivers should note that this detour is not suitable for heavy vehicles.
- Southbound (SB) traffic on SH1 in Clarendon, Otago, is now open with a STOP/GO system in place.
- Northbound (NB) traffic remains closed between Circle Hill Road and Phosphate Road.
- A detour for NB traffic is in place via Circle Hill Road, Barnes Road, Fort Hill Road, Cullen Road, Berwick Road, back to Phosphate Road, and then onto SH1.
- The detour route is not suitable for heavy vehicles.
- A new closure has been reported near the Phosphate Road intersection.
- Motorists should expect delays and follow on-site directions.
Drivers are advised to stay alert and follow all traffic management instructions for their safety and to keep the traffic moving smoothly.