One person has died following a single vehicle crash on Gardiners Road, near Rakaia.

A police spokespersons said five other occupants of the vehicle have been transported to the hospital, two in a critical condition and three in a serious condition.

The accident was reported just after 7.30pm when a vehicle left the road and collided with a tree.

The road has been closed while an investigation takes place.

Motorists are advised to use an alternative route.