Serious crash in Gisborne, near Rhythm & Vines music festival

UPDATE:

Police have confirmed two pedestrians have been killed by a car near the Rhythm and Vines festival venue.

Emergency services were called to Back Ormond Rd, near Snowsill Road in Gisborne at around 9.15pm on New Year’s Eve.

At the time, police confirmed it was a serious crash which led to cordons being put in place at the northern end.

One of the pedestrians died at the scene, while another died while being taken to hospital in a critical condition.

Back Ormond Rd is near the venue of Rhythm and Vines - one of the country’s largest and most popular annual festivals.

It’s unclear at this stage whether any festival attendees or staff were involved in the incident, Rhythm and Vines has been approached for comment.

Earlier story:

There has been a serious crash in Gisborne, near the site of New Year’s Eve music festival Rhythm & Vines, which draws thousands of people from across the country.

Police said the crash happened on Back Ordmond Rd about 9.15pm on New Year’s Eve and the road was closed at its intersection with State Highway 2.

Police asked motorists to avoid the area even though State Highway 2 remained open.

Fire and Emergency NZ referred all inquiries to police.

St John has been approached for comment.

- More to come