One dead six injured after bus crash

At approximately 3.50 pm Saturday 2nd February 2008 a tour bus, operated by Stray Travel Ltd, was travelling towards Greymouth and left the road on State Highway 6 approximately 3 kilometres south of Charleston Township. 

The bus carrying 17 overseas tourists rolled down the bank coming to rest against a tree approximately 20 metres below the roadway.

A 62 year old female United Kingdom national, who resides in Spain, was killed instantly and six other passengers were transported to hospital, one of which was air lifted to Greymouth Base Hospital by helicopter for treatment. 

One passenger remains in hospital in a serious condition. 

The crash was attended by the Westport and Charleston Volunteer Fire Brigades, St Johns Ambulance from Westport and Greymouth with supporting medical specialists. 

Those not taken to hospital were transported by bus to the Westport Fire Station for assessment and support by Victim Support Volunteers. 

The driver, a 36 year old male, has been interviewed by Westport Police. 

The Nelson Serious Crash Unit and Commercial Vehicle Investigation Unit from Christchurch have been called in to assist with the investigation which is being overseen by the West Coast CIB. 

The next of kin have requested the name of the deceased not to be released.