Update 27 May, 5:45am:
State Highway 1 has reopened following last night’s fatal crash involving a car and a motorcycle south of Ward.
The road reopened just after 5.30 am, following a Police Serious Crash Unit scene investigation.
Update 26 May, 8pm:
Drivers can expect State Highway 1 to remain closed tonight as the Police Serious Crash unit investigates a serious crash that occurred south of Ward earlier this evening.
Closure points for the crash have been set at Ward in Marlborough and Kaikoura. Only residents can travel beyond these points.
Drivers must avoid the area or delay their travel.
Because a lengthy road closure is expected, people travelling between Christchurch and Picton should use the inland route, State Highway 7 via Lewis Pass.
Drivers should also check the highway’s status before they travel. Details can be found on the Waka Kotahi website and our social media channels.
Highway Conditions – Nelson/Marlborough (external link)
Waka Kotahi NZTA Top of the South Twitter (external link)
26 May, 6:50 pm:
State Highway 1 is now closed to all traffic south of Ward following a serious crash earlier this evening.
The incident, involving a car and a motorbike, was reported shortly after 6pm tonight.
The crash occurred south of Ward and north of the Waima (Ure) River.
Emergency services and contractors are attending, and the highway is expected to remain closed for some time.
Police confirm the Serious Crash Unit has been notified.
There are no local road detours at the location. Drivers should avoid the area or delay their travel.
Motorists travelling between Picton and Christchurch should consider using the inland route via State Highway 7 and the Lewis Pass.
