One dead after North Canterbury State Highway 7 crash near Waikari

Four people were trapped after a car rolled off a rural Canterbury road early this morning. Police later said one person had died. Photo / NZTA

One person has died after a car rolled off a rural North Canterbury road early today.

Emergency services were called to the single-vehicle crash on State Highway 7, between McRaes Rd and Mt Alexander Rd, near Waikari, about 6.40am.

Fire and Emergency New Zealand earlier said four people were trapped in the vehicle.

“Despite best efforts by emergency services, sadly, one person died at the scene,” police said.

“In addition, one person has been seriously injured and two people have been moderately injured.

“The road was closed while emergency services worked at the scene, and it has now reopened.

The crash is being investigated.

Hato Hone St John said three ambulances, a helicopter, rapid response unit, and two operations managers attended.

Three patients were transported to Christchurch Hospital, two in serious condition and one in moderate condition.

One of the patients in a serious condition was taken to hospital by helicopter, with the others by road ambulance.

Crews from four stations responded and have since extricated all occupants.

The Serious Crash Unit has been advised.