Police have called for the public's help as they investigate a crash in which a person died and three others were seriously hurt.
Emergency services were called to the scene of a two-car crash on State Highway 7 in Arnold Valley, near Greymouth, just after 6.15pm on Saturday.
Police say they "are limited in what we can say" regarding the circumstances of the crash while an investigation is ongoing.
"However, initial indications are that a southbound car crossed the centre line, colliding with a northbound car," police said.
The driver of the southbound car was thrown from the car and sustained serious injuries.
He was airlifted to Christchurch Hospital, where he is reported to be in a critical condition.
The driver of the northbound car, a 56-year-old woman, died at the scene, police said.
Two teenage passengers in the northbound car suffered serious but non-life threatening injuries and were taken to hospital for treatment.
The road was closed for a time while the Serious Crash Unit completed a scene examination overnight. The road reopened overnight.
"Police are working to support the families of all those involved in the crash.
"We would like to hear from anyone who witnessed the crash, who has not yet spoken to us.
• Police ask any new witnesses to contact them via 105 and quote event number 220501/3591.
