Attributable to Inspector Dave Gaskin, Aoraki Area Commander:
Police can now confirm that a number of people have lost their lives in a crash near Washdyke this evening.
Emergency services were called to the single-vehicle crash at the intersection of Seadown Road and Meadows Road just before 7:30pm.
Sadly, a number of people died at the scene.
Another person was taken to hospital with serious injuries.
Early indications are that speed was a factor in the crash.
The road will be closed for a significant period of time while a scene examination is undertaken.
The Serious Crash Unit have been advised.
There is not likely to be a further update this evening.
ENDS
Issued by Police Media Centre