State Highway 6/Gibbston Highway at Kawarau River Bridge, between Queenstown and Cromwell, has reopened but with a 50km/h temporary speed restriction in place.

People are asked to travel with care through this area.

1.30pm – SH6 serious crash closure expected for hours

State Highway 6/Gibbston Highway at Kawarau River Bridge, between Queenstown and Cromwell, may be closed for several hours as police investigate after a serious crash.

People are asked to avoid the area or consider delaying their travel on this route. A detour via Wānaka and Luggate will likely add up to an extra hour of travel for motorists.

Emergency services were called to the three-vehicle crash around 11.45am and police say there are serious injuries.

Contractors for New Zealand Transport Agency Waka Kotahi are travelling to the site to assist with traffic management, to assess damage to the bridge, and may add grit to the highway.

An update will be provided as the road status changes.