One person has died and 20 others have been injured after a serious crash involving a tour bus and two cars south of Queenstown this afternoon.
Emergency services were notified of the crash near the intersection of Glen Nevis Station Rd at around 4.05pm.
Police said a person from one of the cars was confirmed dead at the scene and that at least two others were reported to have critical injuries.
“At least two people from the bus are reported to have serious injuries and a number of other people have moderate injuries,” a spokesperson said.
St John said 11 vehicles attended the incident — nine ambulances, two operations manager, one rapid response unit and one major incident support team. Seven helicopters also responded.
There were 20 patients in total, two critically injured, two seriously injured, and multiple others in a moderate and minor condition.
Fire and Emergency NZ said units from Kingston, Frankton and Queenstown were responding. The crash has been labelled “heavy rescue” on the Fire and Emergency incidents website.
The Otago Southland Rescue Helicopter confirmed to 1News it was en route to the scene.
NZTA said in a statement the road was closed north of Kingston.
“Closure points are in place at Kingston township and at Wye Creek. No immediate detour is available. Avoid the area.”
A spokesperson added that the police serious crash unit would likely attend.
“It is highly likely the road will remain closed for several hours.”
