Two buses carrying Chinese tourists veered off a highway on New Zealand's South Island in perilous weather conditions, resulting in 15 passengers being taken to the hospital, with two in serious condition. The buses were traveling in the same direction on a popular tourist stretch of highway when they slid off the road and overturned, just 100 meters apart. The incident occurred in freezing temperatures with reports of heavy fog and black ice on the road.
The cause of the crashes is currently unknown, and officials have not confirmed the nationality of those on board. However, the Chinese consulate in Christchurch stated that the buses were carrying Chinese tourists. Fifteen people were hospitalized, with two in serious condition, eight moderately hurt, and five sustaining minor injuries. The exact number of passengers on the buses and those treated at the scene remains undisclosed.
No other vehicles were involved in the crashes, and the road remained closed due to the incident. Witnesses described treacherous conditions caused by slippery black ice, a common occurrence on South Island highways during winter. One witness recounted seeing bloodied passengers being rescued through a hatch in the bus roof, with severe head lacerations among the injuries.
The stretch of road where the crashes occurred had been closed earlier due to wintry conditions. This area, between Lake Tekapo and Twizel, is known for its scenic mountain and lakefront views but can pose risks during the Southern Hemisphere winter, especially for unfamiliar drivers. Tragic accidents have previously taken place on this highway, highlighting the dangers of navigating the region's winding and slippery roads.
While the exact circumstances leading to the crashes are still under investigation, this incident serves as a reminder of the challenges posed by winter driving conditions in New Zealand's picturesque yet hazardous landscapes.
