Fatal Collision Claims Lives of South Korean Skiers in New Zealand

A fatal head-on collision on a New Zealand highway resulted in the deaths of three South Korean skiers and serious injuries to two other people. The crash occurred near Geraldine and involved a van and a four-wheel-drive vehicle. Both survivors have been airlifted to Christchurch Hospital.

A head-on collision on a New Zealand highway has resulted in the deaths of three South Korean skiers and left two others seriously injured, according to local police and South Korean sports officials.

The vehicles, a van and a four-wheel-drive, were traveling in opposite directions before they collided at an intersection near the rural South Island town of Geraldine, as confirmed by district police inspector Vicki Walker.

The tragic incident, which took place on Wednesday, led to the immediate deaths of three van passengers. Another passenger was critically injured, while the driver of the four-wheel-drive was also seriously hurt. Both survivors were airlifted to Christchurch Hospital, Walker added.

Identification of the crash victims has not been disclosed by New Zealand or South Korean authorities.

Shim Hye-min, an official with South Korea's Sport and Olympic Committee, stated that the deceased victims were South Korean ski athletes in New Zealand for training. Further details have not been provided by the committee or South Korea's Ski and Snowboard Association.

The South Korean Foreign Ministry is offering consular assistance but has yet to release more specific information.

(With inputs from agencies.)