Three dead, others seriously hurt after two crashes near Tekapo

Saturday, 30 March 2024

Three people are dead and others seriously injured after two crashes on the same road near Tekapo.

A large number of emergency services staff were called to the first crash about 1.30pm, which closed State Highway 8 at Pukaki, before a second crash occurred further along the same road about 3pm.

“Despite the best efforts of those first at the scene, three people were unable to be saved,” police inspector Craig McKay said.

“Several of the injured were trapped in the wreckage and needed to be cut out.”

One of those who died was riding a motorcycle, while the other two were in a car together.

Three other people involved to the crash were taken to hospital via helicopter.

The second crash, near the turnoff to Aoraki Mt Cook, saw 10 injured, including one person who is seriously hurt.

Inspector McKay described the crashes as a “tragic event”.

“Crashes of this nature are incredibly confronting, and we are arranging support for those members of the public who were first at the scene and tried their best to save lives.”

“We can’t thank them enough.

“Any fatal crash, but particularly one where multiple people have lost their lives, is confronting even for veteran emergency service personnel.“

Motorists are asked to expect delays as Tekapo-Twizel Rd is closed between the SH8 and SH80 intersection and Braemar Rd, Waka Kotahi said.

“Consider detouring via the coast.”

A motorist who had to divert due to the crash told Stuff firefighters at the scene expected the road to be closed until 10pm.

McKay asked motorists to take extra care while driving during the long Easter weekend, the road toll of which now sits at three.

One person died during the Easter weekend in 2023, and five in 2022.

“Please take your time, have plenty of breaks and drive to the conditions,” McKay said.

“Crashes like this show how easy it is for things to go horribly wrong.”