Canterbury jet boat ‘incident’: Three people injured after crash in remote Canterbury spot, rescue choppers responding

The first patients land at Christchurch Hospital after being injured in a jet boat 'incident'. Photo / George Heard

Four helicopters have been flown into an isolated Canterbury area to respond to a serious jet boat crash that has left three people injured.

A Maritime NZ spokesperson said they received distress beacon alerts just after 2pm today from the Rangitata River and responded with their Rescue Coordination Centre (RCCNZ).

The spokesperson said three people who are injured, including a head injury, spinal injury and broken leg. Two others were transported to Christchurch Hospital but were uninjured.

Only one boat out of a group of seven was involved in the accident.

Four helicopters were scrambled to provide help. Two were from RCCNZ and another was a privately owned helicopter from Christchurch. Additional helicopters are en route from Greymouth and Christchurch.