Emergency services have been called to the scene of a multiple motorcycle crash in South Canterbury.

A police spokesman told Chris Lynch Media at about 1pm, police were alerted to a crash involving several motorbikes on State Highway 79, the Geraldine-Fairlie Highway, near Townsend Road.

A local near the scene said the motorcyclists were gang members.

A St John Ambulance spokeswoman said they have treated three patients, two in a moderate condition and one in a serious condition.  

An ambulance, a helicopter, two first response units, two managers and a Primary Response in Medical Emergencies doctor were called to the scene.

A person with a suspected spinal injury is being taken to hospital by helicopter.

Fire and Emergency crews were also called to the scene to deal with a vegetation fire, which appears to have been caused when one of the crashed bikes caught alight.

The police spokesman said motorists on the highway should expect delays while emergency services work at the scene.