Police have released the names of a couple who died after a collision between two vehicles in Canterbury a week ago.

They were Anna Brenmuhl, 74, and Francis Brenmuhl, 75, of Kirwee.

"Our deepest thoughts and sympathies are with their family at this extremely difficult time," a statement from police said.

Emergency services were called to the crash on West Coast Rd (State Highway 73) in Kirwee, Selwyn District at around 9.30pm on October 3.

Police earlier said the crash occurred between Hoskyns and Bealey roads.

"Sadly, one person died at the scene," police said at the time.

Two others were taken to hospital in a critical condition, with one subsequently also succumbing to their injuries.

The driver of the other vehicle involved in the collision remained in Christchurch Hospital in a stable condition.

The serious crash unit conducted a scene examination, and inquiries into the cause of the crash were "ongoing". Police said no charges have been laid at this stage.

The road was closed after the crash and reopened after about five and half hours.