Workers crushed by drainage truck

One drainage worker has died and another worker is seriously injured after they were crushed by a truck in Christchurch.

Emergency services were called to the intersection of Sullivan Ave and Richardson Tce in Woolston at 3.25pm today.

A police statement said two drainage trucks were backed up to each other and were pumping out drains under the road when one of the trucks rolled back, trapping two workers between the two trucks.

"Unfortunately one of the workers has died as a result of the injuries sustained," the statement said.

Emergency services, Christchurch City Council and the Department of Labour were at the scene.

The second worker was taken to Christchurch Hospital in a serious condition.

Meanwhile, one person has been seriously injured in a road crash on State Highway 77 in Canterbury.

A  police spokesman said the single-car crash occurred about 4.15pm near Glentunnel.

A St John spokesman said the man, in his 60s, suffered head and possible abdomen injuries when the car he was driving hit a tree.

The motorist was cut from his car and flown to Christchurch Hospital by the Westpac rescue helicopter.

Fire crews from Darfield, Kirwee and Colgate were also at the scene.

- © Fairfax NZ News