A person has died after a car and freight train collided at a level crossing east of Invercargill this afternoon, forcing the closure of a section of State Highway 1.
Emergency services responded to the crash near the intersection of State Highway 1 and Mill Rd South at around 1.20pm, where a vehicle was hit by a train.
Hato Hone St John sent two ambulances and an operations manager to the scene.
In an update this evening, police confirmed the sole occupant of the vehicle died at the scene of the crash.
"An investigation into the circumstances is ongoing," a spokesperson said.
A KiwiRail spokesperson earlier said the collision occurred with a southbound freight train at a crossing protected with flashing lights and bells.
Road closures remained in place on Mill Rd South, between Otaramika Rd and SH1, and SH1 between Racecourse Rd and Mill Rd North. Access was available for residents within the cordon.
Police thanked motorists for their patience and understanding, advising road users to avoid the area.
"People are asked to avoid the area or take an alternative route, or to follow the direction of emergency services at the site," an NZTA spokesperson said earlier.
Fire and Emergency NZ crews responded from Invercargill and Kingswell.
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