- SH1 remains closed near Allanton after a serious two-vehicle crash early this morning
- Emergency services and crash investigators remain at the scene to complete their work
- Drivers are urged to use detours and expect longer travel times throughout the day
A section of State Highway 1 (SH1) in Otago remains closed after a serious crash near Allanton in the early hours of this morning. One person has died.
Emergency services were called to the scene of the two-vehicle crash around 1am. The road closure affects SH1 between State Highway 86 and the Henley-Berwick Road intersection, west of Allanton township.
A spokesperson confirmed, “Allanton-Waihola Road/State Highway 1 is closed following a serious crash this morning.”
The Serious Crash Unit is currently on-site, and authorities expect the road will stay closed until this afternoon while investigations continue. An update issued at 8:30am stated, “SH1 remains CLOSED between SH86 and Henley Berwick Rd. The closure is expected to remain in place until the afternoon while SCU completes their investigations.”
Detours are in place for both directions. Southbound vehicles should follow the diversion by turning right onto SH86 (Centre Road), then left onto Henley-Berwick Road before rejoining SH1. Northbound traffic should use the same route in reverse.
Authorities are encouraging motorists to plan ahead and allow for extra travel time. “Road users should plan their journeys accordingly and allow extra time for travel. People can stay up to date on the status and conditions of the highways at our Journey Planner site.”
The crash has caused significant disruption for drivers in the region, and further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.