A hot air balloon has crashed in Canterbury's Methven this morning.
It came as 10 hot air balloons were launched to celebrate the return of Methven's Fire & Ice festival.
Speaking from the scene, Breakfast reporter Charlotte Mulder said the crash occurred just outside the Methven rugby and cricket clubs on Churchill Rd shortly after the balloons took off.
"One of them came down very soon after, crashing down through these trees," she said.
Two people were hurt and were being assessed by St John staff.
"We are currently transporting one patient to a local medical centre in a minor condition," a St John spokesperson said.
Fire and Emergency New Zealand said it was called shortly before 8.30am, after the hot air balloon crashed into a tree on its ascent.
Two trucks from Methven were present at the scene, along with other emergency services.
Emergency services rushed to the scene on Churchill Rd in Methven shortly before 8.30am after two people were injured in the crash. (Source: Breakfast)
A FENZ spokesperson said the trucks were cleaning up the debris from the balloon and the trees.
People were being urged to avoid the area, as road diversions were in place.
Police have been contacted for comment.
SHARE ME