Serious two-vehicle crash blocks State Highway 6 in Kawarau Gorge

A serious two-vehicle crash has closed State Highway 6 in the Kawarau Gorge, blocking the route between Cromwell and Queenstown. The incident occurred on Friday at approximately 3:10pm just east of the intersection with the Cardrona-Roaring Meg Pack Track.

Hato Hone St John responded to the scene with one ambulance and two helicopters. One person was taken to Lakes District Hospital with minor injuries, though it remains unclear how many others were injured.

The Serious Crash Unit is conducting an investigation, and NZ Transport Agency Waka Kotahi reported the highway was closed between Pearson Rd and Crown Range Rd. Motorists have been advised to avoid the area or delay travel.

A detour is available via Crown Range Road and Cardrona Valley Road. However, Waka Kotahi warned that this detour is not suitable for vehicles longer than 12.5m.

Where reports differ

• One report specifies the crash involved a car and a truck, while others only state it was a two-vehicle crash.
• Reports differ on whether the number of injured people is known, with one stating one person had minor injuries and another stating it is unclear how many were injured.

Compiled from reports by Otago Daily Times, The Press, Stuff and NZ Herald.