21 Apr 2024

Driver dies after crash on State Highway 6 at gorge

3:54 pm on 21 April 2024
State Highway 6 through the Lower Buller Gorge at Hawks Crag.

State Highway 6 through the Lower Buller Gorge, pictured in 2021. Photo: RNZ / Samantha Gee

One person has died after a crash on State Highway 6 on the West Coast on Saturday.

Police were called to the crash on Lower Buller Gorge Road about 6.15pm.

Police said despite the efforts of first responders, the driver was unable to be revived and died at the scene.

They were the sole occupant of the vehicle.

The Serious Crash Unit is investigating.

The road was shut between Bucklands Peak Road and State Highway 69, but reopened about 6am.

It was then closed again between 3pm and 3.30pm to allow police to carry out a scene examination.

The Transport Agency warned drivers to expect delays until traffic cleared.