There’s been a serious crash in Kaikoura early this morning,

Emergency services are currently attending the two-vehicle crash on SH1, near Wilderness Road.

Police were called about 4.25am. 

State highway 1 is expected to remain closed for a few hours.

A St John Ambulance spokesman said two patients are being transported to Christchurch Hospital (by helicopter.

One person is in a critical condition, and the other is in a serious condition.

A detour from the south bound lane is available via Wilderness Road, Beach Road Road and then back onto SH1 and NB traffic detour via Schoolhouse Roar, Old Beach Rd then back onto SH1.

The Serious Crash Unit has been called to the scene.