SH1 closed north of Christchurch after serious crash

9 minutes ago

Police said it appeared there were serious injuries. (File photo)

Photo: RNZ / Kim Baker Wilson

Firefighters have freed the trapped driver of a truck engulfed in flames following a serious crash in north Canterbury.

Emergency services were called after two trucks collided on State Highway 1 near Spotswood, north of Cheviot, about 8.30am on Monday.

Police said it appeared there were serious injuries.

St John said one person was critically injured and flown to hospital. It sent two helicopters to the scene, as well as two operations managers, a primary response unit, a first response unit and an ambulance.

Fire and Emergency said six crews remained at the scene dampening down the wreckage and road.

One of the trucks was on fire and the driver trapped when firefighters arrived. Firefighters freed the person, Fire and Emergency said.

SH1 remained closed between the intersections of Downs and Factory Roads. Diversions were in place but motorists should avoid the area, police said.

Sign up for Ngā Pitopito Kōrero, a daily newsletter curated by our editors and delivered straight to your inbox every weekday.