Two die in Canterbury crashes within 24 hours

Police are investigating two fatal accidents over the weekend. Photo / File

A van was captured on CCTV footage speeding the wrong way along Salisbury St in Christchurch before the driver was killed in a collision with a car, police said.

Canterbury Police are investigating two fatal car crashes in 24 hours on the weekend.

The driver of the van died around 11pm on Saturday and a woman died after a collision between a bus and car at the intersection of Colombo and Kilmore streets about 8pm yesterday.

Inspector Al Stewart said there have been 13 more deaths on Canterbury roads than this time last year.

"Police are extremely disappointed at the standard of driving across the district this year," he said.

"In Saturday's fatal crash the driver of the van was not wearing a seat belt and was thrown from the vehicle when it collided with a south-bound car on Durham St."

The driver died at the scene and two occupants of the car were in Christchurch Hospital in a critical condition.

"CCTV footage of the van prior to the crash shows it speeding the wrong way along Salisbury St," Mr Stewart said.

"Police want every journey to be a safe journey and urge road users to take simple steps before they get behind the wheel or on their bikes such as wearing seat belts, driving to the conditions, if you drink don't drive and don't drive tired."

If anyone witnessed either of the weekend's fatal crashes and haven't spoken to Police please call Christchurch Central Police station on 03 363 7400.

Information can also be provided anonymously by calling Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.