Emergency services are at the scene of a serious crash in Leithfield.
Ambulances and fire and emergency crews were called to the scene on State Highway One just after 5PM.
A police spokeswoman said they were responding to a serious three-vehicle crash on State Highway 1 (Ashworths Road, Leithfield.)
It’s understood the crash is just past the Kowai Bridge.
“Initial indications suggest those involved are seriously injured” the police spokeswoman said.
Three patients have been flown to Christchurch hospital in a serious condition.
The road is closed, and diversions are in place at the scene for both north and south bound traffic.
Motorists are advised to avoid the area and use an alternative route where possible.
Graphic: NZTA
A motorist told Chris Lynch Media the crash involves an SUV, a ute with a trailer towing a boat, a sedan with children, and a bus.
“There was a baby removed from one vehicle. It was a head on collision on a bend” the motorist said.
NZTA said the SH 1 Leithfield between the intersections of Mill Road and Kings Road was closed.
