The Serious Crash Unit is investigating a fatal collision which has occurred on Lower Buller Gorge.
The driver was initially reported overdue at 10:40am this morning as he was expected to arrive in Westport last night.
Police searched the route and the car was found off the road and had collided with a tree.
The driver died at the scene. He was the only occupant of the car.
The road is open tonight but a closure will be in place tomorrow to allow a crane to remove the car.
While next of kin are being informed, no further information is available at this time.
ENDS
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