Three people have been airlifted to Christchurch hospital after a two-car crash north of Kaikōura this morning.
A St John spokesperson said one person was in a critical condition and the other two suffered serious injuries.
Emergency services were called to State Highway 1 near Wilderness Rd just before 4.30am.
Fire and Emergency shift manager Lyn Crosson said two vehicles were involved.
"Three people have been extricated but emergency services are still on the scene."