The University of Canterbury says it's "deeply saddened" by the deaths of two Malaysian students killed in a multi-vehicle crash near Lake Pūkaki yesterday.
Three people died in the horror crash on State Highway 8 at Pūkaki around 1.30pm on Saturday and five others were injured.
Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim posted his condolences to the families of the students on social media this morning.
"Condolences to the families of two Malaysian students who died in a road accident in Lake Tekapo, New Zealand," he posted.
"I also pray for the three more Malaysian students who were injured in this incident to be healed as soon as possible.
"The Malaysian Government through the High Commission in New Zealand will provide appropriate assistance to victims and their families.
Police "are not in a position to add anything more" to yesterday's statement about the crash.
"Identities of the deceased are still being formally confirmed," a spokesperson said.
The Malaysian Ministry of Foreign Affairs released a statement to X saying the remaining three students were airlifted to Christchurch Hospital for urgent medical treatment.
Inspector Craig McKay said several of those injured were trapped in the wreckage and needed to be cut out.
"Crashes of this nature are incredibly confronting, and we are arranging support for those members of the public who were first at the scene and tried their best to save lives," McKay said at the time."
Canterbury University have confirmed the students were enrolled at its institution.
"The University of Canterbury is deeply saddened by the passing of two of our students at Pūkaki this weekend," Vice-Chancellor Cheryl de la Rey said.
"I wish to share our sincerest condolences with the families and friends of those affected."
De la Rey said two other Canterbury University students are in stable condition at Christchurch Hospital.
"We will be working directly with Ōtautahi Christchurch’s Malaysian community to ensure they have the support and help they need."
De la Rey said the university staff recognise the "profound and ongoing impact on our community" and says it "encourages students and staff to prioritise their own wellbeing, together with their whānau and friends".
Its thoughts are "with those involved in the emergency service teams, and members of the public, who responded to the scene".
The High Commission for Malaysia has been approached by 1News for comment.
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