Christchurch Police have released the names of two people killed in separate motor vehicle crashes on State Highway 73 yesterday [Saturday 31 August].
Faith Maree Wood, aged 18, of Christchurch, was a passenger in a Mitsubishi van travelling towards Christchurch which went off the road and down a bank, coming to rest on railway lines.
The incident occurred shortly before 6am yesterday, south-east of Arthurs Pass. Five other people were taken to hospital. All five were reported to be in a stable condition this afternoon.
The second fatal crash occurred at approximately 5.30pm in the Porters Pass area west of Springfield.
Tracy Ann Shipston, aged 39, of Christchurch, died instantly when her vehicle struck a tour bus head-on.
There were no passengers in the tour bus at the time. Police say initial enquiries indicate the deceased's car had crossed the centre line into the path of the oncoming bus.
Investigations into both crashes are continuing.
ENDS