Emergency services are responding to a serious two-vehicle crash in Canterbury this evening.

Police said they were called to the crash on State Highway 1 south of the Hurunui River bridge at around 7.15pm.

"The road is closed while emergency services staff work at the scene."

Fire and Emergency responded with crews from Scargill and Cheviot.

The New Zealand Transport Agency (NZTA) said in a statement that SH1 was closed at near Stonyhurst Rd.

"Avoid the area and consider using an alternative route if possible," a spokesperson said.

1News has contacted St John for comment.