Serious crash closes State Highway 1 near Spotswood in North Canterbury

NZ Herald

Emergency services are at the scene of a serious two-vehicle crash on State Highway 1 near Spotswood in North Canterbury.

Police said they were called to the crash on Parnassus Rd (SH1), near McPhersons Stream Bridge in the Hurunui district, at about 8.33am.

Fire and Emergency NZ say that two trucks have been involved.

Photos from the scene, provided to the Herald, show a large fireball engulfing at least one of the vehicles.

SH1 SPOTSWOOD, CANTERBURY - SERIOUS CRASH - 9AM
Due to a serious crash, near the intersection with Downs Rd, caution is advised along this route. Road users are advised to delay your journey, consider an alt route if possible. Follow directions of emergency services. ^JP pic.twitter.com/X0fudJi08D
— NZ Transport Agency - Canterbury & West Coast (@nztacwc) June 7, 2026

Black smoke can be seen billowing from the scene.

Initial indications are that there have been serious injuries, police said.

At least one of the vehicles has been engulfed in flames. Photo / Supplied

The road has been closed and diversions are in place while emergency services respond.

Fire and Emergency NZ say three appliances from Cheviot have been sent to the scene.

Emergency services are on the scene of the North Canterbury crash. Photo / Supplied

Police advise motorists to avoid the area.

More to come.