Police have recovered the bodies of three people who were unaccounted for after a car with five occupants crashed into a Marlborough river overnight.
The crash occurred at about 1.45am, at the intersection of State Highway 1 and Bush Road, Tuamarina.
“A car with five occupants crashed off the road into the Tuamarina River,” a police spokesperson said.
“Two of the occupants were able to get out of the car and make their way to safety.
“They are reported to have suffered moderate injuries and were transported to hospital.”
The other three occupants of the car remained unaccounted for.
The Police National Dive Squad was deployed and located the car submerged in the river at around 12pm.
“Tragically, all three remaining occupants were found deceased in the car.
“Support is being provided to the families of the deceased, as well as to the two survivors who suffered moderate injuries in the crash.”
Traffic delays expected
Traffic management was in place on State Highway 1 in the area – and “full closures of State Highway 1 may be required at some points during the day,” police earlier said.
“Motorists are asked to expect delays and allow extra time for travel.”
NZTA Waka Kotahi echoed that message.
“State Highway 1 is currently closed to northbound traffic near the intersection of Bush Road and under stop/go traffic control while Police and emergency services attend the incident,” a spokesperson said at about 7am.
“Drivers can expect delays when travelling through the area. Please take extra care when travelling past the crash site and follow all instructions from emergency services.
“A full closure of State Highway 1 is possible later this morning to support ongoing crash scene investigations.
“People travelling between Picton and Blenheim, particularly those with ferry connections, should allow extra time for their journeys.”
Drivers were urged to monitor the highway’s status on the NZTA website.
