Driver fatigue is thought to be the cause of a crash near Lake Hayes yesterday that left two Australian tourists injured. Queenstown police area response manager Senior Sergeant Glenn Wilkinson said a vehicle with four occupants was travelling east on State Highway 6 when it veered off the road and hit a tree near the Lake Hayes Pavilion about 4.30pm. A woman was flown to Dunedin Hospital, and a man was transported to Lakes District Hospital. It appeared the driver had fallen asleep at the wheel, Sen Sgt Wilkinson said. The incident was a reminder for all drivers to take regular breaks during long trips, or to change drivers if possible.

Source: Otago Daily Times February 15, 2026 23:29 UTC