Two dead in separate South Island highway crashes

Emergency services are on the scene of a serious crash on SH7, Culverden. Photo / NZTA

Two people are dead after two separate crashes in Canterbury this afternoon.

The first person died following a serious two-vehicle crash on SH7, near Culverden in north Canterbury, around 3pm.

Another person sustained moderate injuries, police said.

A Fire and Emergency NZ spokesperson told the Herald they were on the scene, assisting police and Hato Hone St John with three crews from Culverden.

The road remains closed, with diversions in place, while the Serious Crash Unit examines the scene.

Police advise motorists to avoid the area if possible.

Later today, a second person died in a serious single-vehicle crash on SH1 in Canterbury.

Police said they were called to the crash in Leithfield, near the intersection with Mays Rd at 5.15pm.

SH1 is open, however the entrance to Mays Rd is closed while the Serious Crash Unit examines the scene.

Motorists should continue to avoid the area if possible.