Lake to Sea Trail Ride school fundraiser in Milton, Otago turns to tragedy

One person has been killed and one other is seriously injured after three separate crashes in the Lake to Sea Trail Ride event in Otago. Photo / File

An annual school fundraiser has turned to tragedy this afternoon, with one person dead and 11 more injured, including one person seriously.

Police have confirmed that one person has been killed in a crash during the Lake to Sea Trail Ride event in Otago.

Emergency services responded to crashes after two distress beacons were activated in the area about 12.10pm.

“Information from the crash sites has been limited due to poor cellphone coverage in the area,” a police statement said.

“More information will be released as it becomes available.”

A St John spokeswoman confirmed 11 people had been injured.

One person was flown by helicopter to Dunedin Hospital in a serious condition, while another was airlifted in a moderate condition.

Three others in a moderate condition were taken to hospital by ambulances. One person was transported from the scene in a private vehicle with moderate injuries.

Five others were treated at the scene for minor injuries.

The St John spokeswoman said the callouts related to multiple crashes.

The 18th Lake to Sea Trail Ride is a popular fundraiser for Tokomairiro High School in Milton, about 50km south of Dunedin.

The 140km trail ride for off-road motorbikes and ATVs goes from Milburn to Toko rivermouth – and back again – through a mixture of forestry and farmland.

Social media posts after the fatal crash have said there had also been some “bad crashes” at last year’s event.

Organisers have been approached for comment.

Marshalls had been placed at junctions and road crossings, the event organisers said in pre-event information.

A “less challenging course” of about 80km is available for less experienced riders, while riders under 12 must be accompanied on the course by a parent or guardian.

Helmets and sturdy boots are compulsory. Bikes must be mechanically safe, organisers say, with good tyres and have a 60km fuel range, plus a can for lunchtime refuel. Scrutineers check over the bikes before going on the course.

Organisers try to vary the track every year, but need the permission of various landowners.

Weather today has seen a high of 16C with light rain showers.