A section of State Highway 1 between Blenheim and Kaikōura may remain closed for several hours after a vehicle carrying a hazardous substance caught fire this afternoon.
The incident near Kekerengu was being attended by emergency services, which were notified about 4.15pm.
The New Zealand Transport Agency warned motorists should expect delays and avoid travel in the area if possible.
"The hazardous nature of the goods being carried by the vehicle means the recovery of the remains of the vehicle and clean-up at the site may take several more hours," the agency said.
Road users travelling between Blenheim and Christchurch could take the inland route via SH63 Wairau Valley, SH6 to Murchison, SH65 to Lewis Springs and SH7 Springs Junction to Culverden. The reverse applied also for travel from Christchurch to Blenheim.
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