One person was taken to hospital after a single-vehicle crash near Purakaunui in the Catlins. PHOTO: SUPPLIEDOne person was taken to hospital with moderate injuries after a single-vehicle crash near Purakaunui in the Catlins yesterday morning. A police spokesman said they were alerted to the crash about 11.45am in Purakaunui Bay Rd, near the site of a popular beachside campsite. Meanwhile, driver fatigue is thought to be the cause of a crash near Lake Hayes on Sunday in which two Australian tourists were injured. The crash was a reminder to all drivers to take regular breaks during long trips, or to change drivers if possible, he said.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 16, 2026 15:34 UTC