Man dead after car hits power pole near Ashburton

The man was killed after his car crashed into a power pole on State Highway 77 near Ashburton. Photo / Google Maps

A man has died after a crash in Mid Canterbury this morning.

Police said he was killed after his car crashed into a power pole on State Highway 77 - also known as the Methven Highway - between Methven and Ashburton shortly after 3.30am.

The crash happened on the highway near Ashburton.

The man was the sole occupant of the car.

The Serious Crash Unit is investigating.

The NZTA said SH77 was closed between Thompsons Track and Blands Rd.

A detour is in place and motorists travelling between Methven and Ashburton are being advised to plan ahead.

A serious crash has CLOSED #SH77 near Thompsons Track and Blands Road. A detour route is in place. #PlanAhead. https://t.co/mWlcXLCYKw ^MF pic.twitter.com/SZW7XuUzh5

— Waka Kotahi NZTA Canterbury & West Coast (@WakaKotahiCWC) March 4, 2017