Five people injured, one critically, after two-vehicle crash near Ashburton

One person is in a critical condition and four others have suffered injuries following a two-vehicle crash near Ashburton tonight.

Emergency services received reports of the crash on Longbeach Rd, Willowby, about 5.40pm on Tuesday.

“One person is in a critical condition and a helicopter is en route,” a police spokesperson said earlier.

A Hato Hone St John spokesperson said three road ambulances, one operations manager and one helicopter attended the incident and treated five patients.

“One patient in a critical condition was transported to Christchurch Hospital via helicopter,” they said.

Two patients in a moderate condition and one with minor injuries were transported by road ambulance to Ashburton Hospital.

The Serious Crash Unit has been advised.

“The road is blocked and motorists are advised to expect delays,” police said.

A Fire and Emergency NZspokesperson said they dispatched two fire appliances to the scene of the crash and referred all other questions to police.