Two injured in Queenstown hit and run

Two people were hospitalised after an alleged hit and run by a drunk driver in Queenstown overnight.

A car crossed the centreline on Gorge Rd and mounted the footpath where it struck two pedestrians and narrowly missed a third, about midnight, Sergeant Linda Stevens of Queenstown police said.

The driver of the car, described as a Toyota Estima, did not stop at the scene, she said.

The victims, a man and a woman both aged 24, were taken to Lakes District Hospital with moderate injuries. Both had been transferred to Southland Hospital.

Police found and had spoken to a 30-year-old man believed to be the driver, Ms Stevens said.

He was charged with two counts of driving with excess breath alcohol causing injury and failing to stop and ascertain injury.

He was due to appear in Queenstown District Court on January 24.

Police are seeking witnesses and also want to hear from anyone who saw the car prior to the incident, Ms Stevens said.

- NZPA