Person critically injured in Central Otago crash near Alexandra

One person is in a critical condition after a two-vehicle crash near Alexandra in Central Otago.

Police said emergency services responded to the crash at the intersection of Wedderburn-Becks Rd and St Bathans Loop Rd about 11.40am on Friday.

Hato Hone St John said it was notified of the motor vehicle incident and responded with a first response unit, Prime (Primary Response in Medical Emergencies) responder, operations manager and helicopter.

One person was airlifted to Dunedin Hospital in a critical condition.

Three other people, all in minor condition, were assessed and treated at the scene.

The NZ Transport Agency said detours were in place after the crash closed State Highway 85 between Omakau and Idaburn.

Road users are asked to avoid the area or delay their travel.

A detour is available for westbound traffic by turning left on to Ida Valley-Omakau Rd, continuing along Ida Valley-Omakau Rd, then turning left back on to SH85.

The reverse applies for eastbound traffic.

More to come.