Police are responding to a serious crash, south of Rangitata.

The two-vehicle crash occurred at around 3:30pm at the intersection of SH1 and Looker Road.

It’s understood several people have been seriously injured.

The road is closed to allow emergency services to attend.

Motorists are asked to please delay travel or avoid the area if possible.

A Waka Kotahi NZ Transport Agency spokeswoman said drivers can expect delays using SH1 into the evening.

“Drivers going south will be detoured into Geraldine (SH79) from Rangitata then back onto SH1 via Orari or Winchester.

Coming north, the reverse will apply. This will add to the journey time.

The Police Serious Crash Unit is at the scene, corner of SH1 and Looker Road.

SH1 between Orari and Rangitata could remain closed well into the evening.

 “Given this is the start of the school holiday period, people should plan for delays through South Canterbury.

If people can postpone their journeys south of Rangitata through South Canterbury tonight, they should consider doing so.”