One person seriously injured in Southern Motorway car and truck crash
Thursday 17 September 2026 · 3 outlets · 3 reports · updated 
A person was seriously injured following a collision between a car and a truck on Thursday afternoon. The crash occurred on the westbound section of Christchurch's Southern Motorway between Curletts Road and Shands Road. While the motorway has since completely reopened, motorists are advised to expect delays.
Key facts
4 facts
- A car and truck collided on the Southern Motorway around 3pm on Thursday.
- One person sustained serious injuries in the crash.
- The crash occurred between the Curletts Rd on-ramp and Shands Rd off-ramp.
- The motorway reopened by 4.35pm.
The full story
1 min read · 3 outlets
A person was seriously injured following a collision between a car and a truck on Christchurch's Southern Motorway. The crash occurred at approximately 3pm on Thursday.
The incident partially blocked the westbound lanes between the Curletts Rd on-ramp and the Shands Rd off-ramp. While the motorway remained open for eastbound traffic, westbound traffic was reduced to one lane or closed.
The NZ Transport Agency confirmed the road had completely reopened by 4.35pm. Motorists were advised to expect delays as congestion cleared following the reopening.
How it developed
- Thu 17 Sep, 3:48pmThe motorway has since completely reopened, though delays are expected.
Where reports differ
- One report states the motorway was down to one westbound lane, while another states it was closed to westbound traffic.
Compiled from reports by Stuff, The Press and NZ Herald.